noun
Uncommon
bolster
BOLS-tuh
Bolster (noun) means a long cylindrical pillow or cushion. Example: “She propped a bolster behind her back while reading in bed.”
noun
1
A long cylindrical pillow or cushion.
"She propped a bolster behind her back while reading in bed."
verb
1
To support, strengthen, or reinforce something.
"New evidence bolstered the prosecution's case."
"The extra staff helped bolster customer service."
How to use bolster
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAs a noun, a long pillow; as a verb, to strengthen or back something up.
Common pairings
bolster confidence
bolster support
bolster an argument
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Word forms
- Plural
- bolsters
- Third person singular
- bolsters
- Past tense
- bolstered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She propped a _____ behind her back while reading in bed.
Etymology
From Old English bolster ("pillow"), from a Germanic root shared with German Polster and Swedish bolster.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for bolster
See all rhymes for bolster →Frequently asked questions
What does “bolster” mean?
The word “bolster” means a long cylindrical pillow or cushion. In plain terms, as a noun, a long pillow; as a verb, to strengthen or back something up.
How do you pronounce “bolster”?
“Bolster” is pronounced BOLS-tuh (/ˈboʊlstɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “bolster” in a sentence?
Here is “bolster” used in a sentence: “She propped a bolster behind her back while reading in bed.”
What part of speech is “bolster”?
Depending on how it is used, “bolster” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “bolster” come from?
The word “bolster” comes from Old English. From Old English bolster ("pillow"), from a Germanic root shared with German Polster and Swedish bolster.
Is “bolster” a common word?
“Bolster” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “bolster” have?
“Bolster” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a long cylindrical pillow or cushion.
