em·bold·en \ə̇mˈbōldən, em-\transitive verb (-ed/-ing/-s) Etymology:en- (I) + bold + -en : to impart boldness or courage to : instill with boldness, bravery, or resolution enough to overcome timidity or misgiving < emboldened by the weakness of the royal governor, an irresponsible mob … set upon a squad of ten soldiers — R.W.G.Vail > Synonyms:see encourage