Definition of emboldennext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb embolden differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of embolden are encourage, hearten, and inspirit. While all these words mean "to fill with courage or strength of purpose," embolden implies the giving of courage sufficient to overcome timidity or reluctance.

emboldened by her first success, she tried an even more difficult climb

When might encourage be a better fit than embolden?

While the synonyms encourage and embolden are close in meaning, encourage suggests the raising of one's confidence especially by an external agency.

the teacher's praise encouraged the students to greater efforts

When could hearten be used to replace embolden?

Although the words hearten and embolden have much in common, hearten implies the lifting of dispiritedness or despondency by an infusion of fresh courage or zeal.

a hospital patient heartened by good news

When is inspirit a more appropriate choice than embolden?

The words inspirit and embolden are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, inspirit, somewhat literary, implies instilling life, energy, courage, or vigor into something.

patriots inspirited the people to resist

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of embolden Let alone, a teammate feeling emboldened enough to call out the quarterback? Candace Buckner, New York Times, 25 May 2026 His new stance imperils Americans and emboldens China, which makes a future crisis likelier than ever. Thomas Wright, The Atlantic, 18 May 2026 The reductions, which reduced the number of entomologists, have emboldened ant smugglers, Wired reported. Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 15 May 2026 The administration’s failures in the Middle East have only emboldened China, ultimately undercutting our economy at home and leadership abroad. The Editorial Board, Oc Register, 14 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for embolden
Recent Examples of Synonyms for embolden
Verb
  • Zaya's adorable smile might just be her best accessory in this green and pink tuxedo inspired look that was perfectly coordinated with Union and Dwyane at the Better Brothers Los Angeles Truth Awards in March 2020.
    Alexandra Schonfeld, PEOPLE, 29 May 2026
  • The rooms themselves are curated with an eye for design, pairing traditional Japanese architecture with midcentury Scandinavian furniture—Eames, Kjærholm, Finn Juhl—all available to purchase in the on-site design shop should your room inspire you.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 May 2026
Verb
  • Speaking between ballots, Tafoya repeatedly reminded delegates about the importance of winning the general election, while Schwarze encouraged them not to compromise their principles.
    Jay Gabler, Twin Cities, 30 May 2026
  • Kramer said the attendance cap was intentional and designed to encourage visitors to attend events throughout the region.
    Ben Wheeler May 29, Kansas City Star, 29 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Embolden.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/embolden. Accessed 30 May. 2026.

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