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buttress Synonyms

Another word for buttress

Choosing another word for buttress depends on context, so the 28 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 5 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To increase the strength of or provide supporting evidence for (an argument, theory, or institution).

Usage Example

"The economist gathered decades of employment data to bolster her argument for policy reform."

Strongest
bolster
reinforce
strengthen
Strong
shore up
fortify
support
underpin
back up
corroborate
substantiate

• noun (Context 2)

A projecting structure of stone or brick built against a wall to support or reinforce it against lateral thrust.

Usage Example

"The ancient cathedral's massive stone walls were held upright by a series of exterior buttresses."

Strong
abutment
support
brace
prop
pier
Weak
stay
stanchion

• noun (Context 3)

A source of defense, stability, or support for a person, institution, or idea.

Usage Example

"An independent judiciary serves as an essential bulwark of constitutional democracy."

Strongest
bulwark
Strong
mainstay
pillar
bastion
backbone
stronghold
anchor

• verb (Context 4)

To provide (a building or structure) with projecting supports of stone, brick, or timber.

Usage Example

"Engineers had to brace the retaining wall with heavy concrete piers to prevent a landslide."

Strongest
brace
shore up
Strong
prop
prop up
reinforce
support

• noun (Context 5)

A prominent, steep-sided mass of rock or a ridge that projects outward from the main face of a mountain or hill.

Usage Example

"The mountaineers set up their base camp at the foot of the granite spur before ascending the peak."

Strong
spur
crag
outcrop
Weak
promontory

Opposites of buttress

The opposite of buttress shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

undermine
weaken
subvert
sap
erode
demolish
See all opposites of buttress

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Buttress. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/buttress
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