reinforcement

noun

ˌrē-ən-ˈfȯrs-mənt How to pronounce reinforcement (audio)
Definition of reinforcementnext
as in support
a structure that holds up or serves as a foundation for something else the consulting architect suggested using additional steel reinforcements to counteract the bridge's design flaw

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 reinforcement These immediate, positive reinforcements can help the brain begin associating the healthier behavior with something rewarding. — Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 12 Oct. 2026 That combination of flavor reinforcement and heat tolerance is the quiet engine behind nearly every dish tallow is good for. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Sacbee.com, 12 Oct. 2026 Police reinforcements were sent from the capital, Brussels, and from Antwerp, and more are coming. — ABC News, 8 Oct. 2026 Namely, a desperate need for pitching reinforcements and a belief that Holmes’ profile would mesh with their Gold Glove infielders. — Patrick Mooney, New York Times, 4 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for reinforcement
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reinforcement
  1. support
  2. brace
  3. pillar
  4. mounting
Noun
  • Blue Origin also aims to produce nearly all its components and systems in-house, while maintaining support from external suppliers.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2026
  • Peter and Rebecca’s sister Lauren will serve as Rebecca’s support swimmer.
    — Charna Flam, PEOPLE, 17 Oct. 2026
Definition of support
Noun
  • Messi bagged a brace in a matter of minutes, and the Five Stripes’ playoff hopes keep circling the drain.
    — Amna Subhan, AJC.com, 18 Oct. 2026
  • There came a day over this summer, as Patrick Mahomes still wore a knee brace while throwing footballs, that the Chargers and Chiefs stood neck and neck in the market odds to win the AFC West title.
    — Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 18 Oct. 2026
Definition of brace
Noun
  • The three pillars of regenerative agriculture Here’s an easy way to picture it.
    — Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 15 Oct. 2026
  • The collaboration falls during MCM’s 50th anniversary year and serves to reaffirm sport as a pillar of its history.
    — Miles Socha, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of pillar
Noun
  • The weapon begins spinning violently, dragging the service member around before throwing him several yards from the mounting.
    — Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 15 July 2026
  • After that, there are further stages including preparation, conservation, and mounting.
    — George Nelson, ARTnews.com, 14 July 2026
Definition of mounting

Browse Nearby Words

reinforced
reinforcement
reinforcements
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Cite this Entry

“Reinforcement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reinforcement. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on reinforcement

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about reinforcement

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