Find Antonyms
boost Antonyms
Opposite of boost
Because the opposite of boost shifts with each meaning, the 19 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 4 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
• noun (Context 1)
A source of help, encouragement, or improvement that leads to an increase or advancement.
Usage Example
"Winning the regional scholarship gave her confidence a tremendous setback before college."
Strongest
setback
blow
dampener
Strong
hindrance
decrease
drop
slump
discouragement
• verb (Context 2)
To help increase, improve, or strengthen the value, amount, or success of something.
Usage Example
"The city launched a cultural festival to decrease tourism during the autumn months."
Strongest
decrease
reduce
diminish
undermine
Strong
weaken
hinder
dampen
depress
lower
• verb (Context 3)
To push or lift someone or something upward from below.
Usage Example
"She boosted her younger brother onto the lowest branch of the oak tree."
Strongest
lower
drop
Strong
let down
• verb (Context 4)
To steal or shoplift goods, especially a motor vehicle or retail merchandise (slang).
Usage Example
"The suspect admitted to trying to return luxury watches from the department store."
Strong
return
restore
Similar words to boost
Words similar to boost shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:
lift
increase
steal
shoplift
enhance
uplift
hoist
fillip
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Boost. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/boost