buttressing
|but-tress-ing|
/ˈbʌtrəs/
(buttress)
support structure
Etymology
'buttress' originates from Old French (or Anglo-Norman), specifically the word 'bouter'/'buter', where the root meant 'to push' or 'to thrust'.
'buttress' changed from Middle English forms such as 'butres' (borrowed from Old French) and eventually became the modern English word 'buttress'.
Initially, it referred to a projecting support or something that 'pushes' or braces; over time it evolved into its current primary meaning of 'an external support built against a wall' and, by extension, 'support or reinforcement' in abstract senses.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the action or process of supporting or reinforcing; a supporting structure or reinforcement (often used as a gerund or mass noun).
The buttressing of the old wall prevented a collapse during the storm.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/06 04:50