brace

UK: breɪs | US: breɪs

Definition

  1. n. a device that clamps things tightly or provides support

  2. vt. to prepare for something difficult; to support or strengthen

  3. n. (pl.) a pair (e.g., "a brace of pistols")

Structure
brac <arm, from Old French *bras*>e <silent suffix>
Etymology

The word "brace" traces back to Old French brace (meaning "arm"), derived from Latin bracchium (also "arm"). The original sense of "clasping with arms" evolved metaphorically into "support" (like arms holding something up) and later "a pair" (from the idea of two arms). The silent "-e" is a common Middle English suffix.

Examples

  1. She wore a brace to stabilize her injured knee.

  2. The team braced for the upcoming challenges.

  3. He used a brace to reinforce the wobbly shelf.

  4. A brace of ducks flew overhead.

  5. The walls were braced with steel beams during construction.