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sup·port

support

 
 
pronunciation:
s port
parts of speech:
transitive verb, noun
features:
Word Combinations (verb, noun), Word Builder, Word Explorer, Word Parts
part of speech: transitive verb
inflections: supports, supporting, supported
definition 1: to bear (a weight or load).
These picture hangers can support thirty pounds.The little chairs are not made to support the weight of an adult.
synonyms:
bear, carry
similar words:
cradle, shoulder, take
definition 2: to hold up; brace.
The solid oak table is supported by four sturdy legs.
synonyms:
bear, brace, buttress, uphold
similar words:
bolster, cradle, prop, shore up, stake, stay, truss, underpin
definition 3: to sustain or encourage (someone) during periods of stress or affliction.
Her family supported her during her time of grief.
synonyms:
bolster, comfort, hearten, succor, sustain
similar words:
buck up, buoy up, buttress, cheer, encourage, help, inspirit, reassure, uphold
definition 4: to provide adequately for.
The parents worked hard to support their families.He doesn't make enough money in that job to support himself.
synonyms:
maintain, provide for, sustain, take care of
antonyms:
neglect
similar words:
bankroll, finance, foster, fund, nourish, nurture, subsidize, underwrite
definition 5: to provide evidence for; corroborate.
The testimony of the witness supported the suspect's story.You need to support your argument with some facts.
synonyms:
back up, corroborate, substantiate
antonyms:
contradict, counter
similar words:
affirm, bolster, certify, circumstantiate, confirm, establish, evidence, fortify, sustain, validate, verify, vouch for, warrant
definition 6: to agree with, adhere to, or aid (a cause, idea, person, or group).
The governor supported the liberal candidate for president.Our group supports animal rights.
synonyms:
back, endorse, side
antonyms:
oppose
similar words:
defend, promote
Word CombinationsSubscriber feature About this feature
 
part of speech: noun
definition 1: the act or process of supporting, or the condition of being supported.
These beams give strong support to the ceiling.Blue collar support helped him win the election.
synonyms:
advocacy, encouragement
similar words:
buttress, cooperation, start
definition 2: someone or something that gives support.
I bought this cushion as a support for my back.Her daughter was a support to her after her surgery.
synonyms:
brace, buttress, prop
similar words:
base, basis, bracing, dependence, mount, resource, rest, stay
definition 3: economic maintenance.
He relied on his parents' support during college.
synonyms:
help, maintenance, upkeep
antonyms:
neglect
similar words:
backing, livelihood, start
definition 4: the encouragement given to someone during periods of stress or affliction.
She looked to her friends for support during her divorce.
synonyms:
comfort, encouragement
similar words:
start
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derivations: supportless (adj.), supportingly (adv.)
Word Builder: support +
  • supporting:
    giving support to a person or thing.
  • supportive:
    giving help to someone who needs it.
Word Explorer
See
  care, family, first aid, foot, muscle, skeleton
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