reinforce

Universal Words verb [VN] 1 to make a feeling, an idea, etc. stronger: The experience reinforced my sense of loss. * Such jokes tend to reinforce racial stereotypes. * The climate of political confusion has only reinforced the country's economic decline. * Success in the talks will reinforce his reputation as an international statesman. 2 to make a structure or material stronger, especially by adding another material to it: All buildings are now reinforced to withstand earthquakes. * reinforced plastic / steel 3 to send more people or equipment in order to make an army, etc. stronger: The UN has undertaken to reinforce its military presence along the borders.