bolster

Bolster is defined as a long narrow cushion.

(noun)

An example of a bolster is the cylinder shaped pillow that runs along the back of a couch.

The definition of a bolster is something that helps support weight.

(noun)

An example of a bolster is a cross beam in a ceiling.

To bolster is to support or strengthen something.

(verb)

An example of to bolster is to add another piece of wood to strengthen a bird house.

To bolster is to uplift.

(verb)

An example of to bolster is lift someone’s spirits with a good speech.

See bolster in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

a long, narrow cushion or pillow
a soft pad for easing pressure on any part of the body
any bolsterlike object or support; specif.,
1. a capping piece over a post to extend the bearing area under a beam
2. the connecting part between the volutes of an Ionic capital

Origin: ME & OE, akin to ON bolstr, Ger polster; ult. < IE base *bhel-, to swell: see ball

transitive verb

to prop up as with a bolster; support, strengthen, or reinforce: often with up

See bolster in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

A long narrow pillow or cushion.

transitive verb bol·stered, bol·ster·ing, bol·sters