strengthen

verb

strength·​en ˈstreŋ(k)-thən 

ˈstren(t)-

strengthened; strengthening

ˈstreŋ(k)th-niŋ,

ˈstren(t)th-;

ˈstreŋ(k)-thə- 

ˈstren(t)-

transitive verb

: to make stronger

intransitive verb

: to become stronger

strengthener

ˈstreŋ(k)th-nər

ˈstren(t)th-;

ˈstreŋ(k)-thə- 

ˈstren(t)-

noun

Synonyms

• harden
• fortify

Examples of strengthen in a Sentence

These exercises will strengthen your stomach muscles.

He takes herbs to strengthen his immune system.

The development of new electronic products has strengthened the company's position as the leader in digital technology.

Holidays often serve to strengthen bonds between family members.

Their financial situation strengthened her determination to find a new career.

The team has been strengthened by the addition of several new players.

The winds are expected to strengthen.

The economy is slowly strengthening.

The Canadian dollar is strengthening against the U.S. dollar.

The trade restrictions will strengthen the pound.

Recent Examples on the Web

Forecasters have warned that Flossie, which strengthened to become a tropical storm on June 29, could become a hurricane within days. —Cybele Mayes-Osterman, USA Today, 1 July 2025

To strengthen your position in this AI age, regularly audit your skills, passions, and industry trends. —Britney Porter, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025

Cal Fire status update Situation Summary Firefighters will continue to strengthen containment lines throughout the day. —Ca Wildfire Bot, Sacbee.com, 1 July 2025

Bundled content and promotional partnerships have further strengthened its value. —Anna Tingley, Variety, 1 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for strengthen

• lengthen

Kids Definition

strengthen

verb

strength·​en ˈstreŋ(k)-thən 

strengthened; strengthening ˈstreŋ(k)th-(ə-)niŋ 

: to make or become stronger

strengthener

-(ə-)nər 

noun