Search Dictionary
Definition of strengthen

strengthen

/ˈstrɛŋ.θən/
strength · en
Adverb:strongly
•
Adjective:strong
•
Past Simple:strengthened
•
Past Participle:strengthened
•
Present Participle:strengthening
JUMP TO:

strengthen Lexical Profile

strengthen Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make or become physically stronger, sturdier, or more resilient.

Example

"Regular resistance training helps to strengthen both muscles and bones."

2

To make or become more effective, secure, or authoritative (of an argument, relationship, institution, or position).

Example

"The new trade agreement is expected to strengthen diplomatic ties between the two nations."

3

To grow in force, intensity, or value (especially of wind, a currency, or an emotion).

Example

"The dollar continued to strengthen against other major currencies throughout the quarter."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for strengthen
Antonyms
View all antonyms for strengthen

• Rhymes for strengthen

• Nearby Words

streetwise
strelitzia
strength
strengthen
strengthener
strenuous
strenuously

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English as strengnen or strengthenen, from the noun strength (from Old English strengþu) combined with the verbal suffix -en.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Strengthen. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/strengthen
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.