reinforce
UK: ˌriːɪnˈfɔːs | US: ˌriːɪnˈfɔːrs
vt. to strengthen or support with additional material, personnel, or effort
vt. to emphasize or make more convincing (e.g., an idea or belief)
vt. (psychology) to encourage a behavior through rewards or consequences
The word "reinforce" originates from Old French reforcer (to strengthen again), combining re- (again) + enforcer (to enforce, from Latin in- + fortis "strong"). The morpheme "force" traces back to Latin fortis, meaning "strong," which evolved into Old French force (physical power). The prefix "re-" signals repetition, while "in-" intensifies the action. Over time, "reinforce" shifted from literal military strengthening (e.g., troops) to broader contexts like psychology and abstract support.
The army sent troops to reinforce the border defenses.
Teachers use positive feedback to reinforce good behavior in students.
Steel beams were added to reinforce the building’s structure.
Her argument was reinforced by compelling evidence.
The company reinforced its commitment to sustainability with new policies.