transitive verb braced, bracing brac′·ing

1. to tie or bind on firmly
2. to tighten, esp. by stretching
3. to strengthen or make firm by supporting the weight of, resisting the pressure of, etc.; prop up
4. to equip or support with braces
5. to make ready for an impact, shock, etc.: often used reflexively
6. to give vigor or energy to; stimulate; invigorate
7. to get a firm hold with (the hands or feet)
8. ☆ Slang to ask a loan or handout from

Etymology: ME bracen < OFr bracer, to brace, embrace < L brachia, pl. of brachium, an arm < Gr brachiōn, arm, upper arm < brachys, short (in contrast to the longer lower arm): see merry

noun

1. two of a kind; a couple; pair, as of hounds, game animals, or pistols
2. a device that clasps or connects to keep something firmly in place; fastener
3. Brit. suspenders
4. a device for setting up or maintaining tension, as a guy wire
5. 1. either of the signs { }, used to connect or enclose words or items to be considered together
   2. such a sign used to connect two or more staves of a musical score
   3. the set of staves so connected
6. a device, as a beam, used as a support, to resist strain or pressure, etc.; prop
7. 1. any of various devices for supporting a weak or malformed part of the body: often intended for permanent use in contrast to a splint or cast
   2. a device attached to the teeth in order to move them gradually into better occlusion
8. a tool for holding and rotating a drilling bit
9. ☆ Informal a rigid position of exaggerated attention, as that assumed by underclassmen at military academies

Etymology: ME < OFr, armful, fathom < L brachia

noun

Etymology: Fr bras (de vergue), brace (of a yard) < L brachium: see brace

transitive verb braced, bracing brac′ing