strengthens
|strength-ens|
/ˈstrɛŋθən/
(strengthen)
make stronger
Etymology
'strengthen' originates from English, specifically formed from the noun 'strength' plus the verb-forming suffix '-en', where 'strength' derived from Old English 'strengðu' (from 'strang'/'strang-') and '-en' meant 'to make' or 'to become'.
'strengthen' changed from Middle English forms such as 'strenchen'/'strengthen' and eventually became the modern English word 'strengthen' by regularization of spelling and pronunciation.
Initially, it meant 'to make strong' or 'to become strong', and over time it has retained that basic meaning while extending to figurative senses like 'to increase influence or effectiveness'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to make or become stronger in physical power, solidity, or resilience.
Regular exercise strengthens the muscles in your back.
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Verb 2
to increase the effectiveness, intensity, or influence of something (e.g., position, argument, policy).
The new evidence strengthens her case in court.
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Verb 3
to make more secure or stable (e.g., defenses, relationships, institutions).
The partnership strengthens ties between the two companies.
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Last updated: 2025/11/03 08:16