WordLens

reinforcement

1 of 1noun
/ˌriɪnˈfɔrsmənt/
Forms:reinforcements
1

the additional troops or supplies sent to support an army

  • The general requested reinforcements after the enemy broke through the front lines.
  • Without timely reinforcements, the besieged troops would have surrendered.
  • Helicopters delivered reinforcements to the remote outpost under attack.
  • The arrival of reinforcements boosted the morale of the exhausted battalion.
  • Critics argued that sending reinforcements would only prolong the war.
Synonyms:
reenforcementsupport
2

a material, structure, or device added to something to make it stronger or more durable

  • The bridge's steel reinforcements prevented it from collapsing under heavy traffic.
  • The engineer added carbon fiber reinforcement to the airplane's wings.
  • These boots have ankle reinforcements for extra support during hikes.
  • The concrete walls had metal reinforcements to withstand earthquakes.
  • The tailor sewed in a hidden reinforcement to prevent the seam from tearing.
Synonyms:
strengthener
3

(psychology) reward or punishment that makes a behavior more or less likely to happen again

  • The teacher used candy as positive reinforcement to encourage participation in class.
  • Removing chores acted as negative reinforcement, increasing his homework completion.
  • Social media "likes" serve as instant reinforcement for posting content.
  • The dog learned tricks faster with treat-based reinforcement.
  • Critics argue that constant reinforcement with prizes can reduce intrinsic motivation.
Synonyms:
reinforcerreinforcing stimulus
4

information that makes more forcible or convincing

Synonyms:
reenforcement
5

an act performed to strengthen approved behavior

Synonyms:
reward