reinforce
UK[ˌriːɪnˈfɔːs]US[ˌriːɪnˈfɔːrs]
v
to make a structure, material, or feeling stronger or more effective
v
to make a military force stronger by adding more personnel or equipment
v
to provide support for an idea, belief, or feeling, making it stronger
Morpheme Breakdown
re
in
force
re
again
in
in
force
strength
Etymology
the word "reinforce" entered english in the late 16th century from french renforcer, which itself was influenced by italian rinforzare. its components trace back to latin: the prefix re- (again) combined with in- (intensively) and the root fortis (strong). the literal construction "to make strong again" or "to strengthen intensely" perfectly captures the core action of the verb. over time, its application broadened from physical strengthening, such as fortifications, to encompass strengthening arguments, beliefs, and behaviors, maintaining the logical link between the ancient concept of fortitude and modern notions of support and augmentation.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + in (in) + force (strength)
- re: latin origin, a prefix meaning "again" or "back".
- in: latin origin, a prefix meaning "in", "into", or "upon".
- force: from old french force, from vulgar latin fortia, from latin fortis meaning "strong". functions as the root conveying the core sense of strength or power.
Examples
the construction crew used steel beams to reinforce the old bridge.
the general decided to reinforce the troops at the front line with additional tanks.
positive feedback from her teacher helped reinforce her confidence in public speaking.