reinforcement

B2 Topic:Actions & Processes

Also spelled re-inforcement

US /ˌɹiɪnˈfɔɹsmənt/ UK /ˌɹiːɪnˈfɔːsmənt/
noun Freq #23208

Meanings

  1. 1
    noun

    The act of making something stronger or more solid.

    The old bridge needs reinforcement before heavy trucks can cross it.

  2. 2
    noun

    Extra soldiers, equipment, or help sent to support a group that is already working or fighting.

    The commander radioed for reinforcements as the battle grew worse.

  3. 3
    noun

    A reward or response that encourages a person or animal to repeat a behaviour.

    Praise can be a powerful reinforcement for good behaviour in children.

  4. 4
    noun

    Something added to give extra strength or support.

    Steel bars act as a reinforcement inside the concrete wall.

Thesaurus

Synonyms
2 noun · extra soldiers, equipment,... support
3 noun · a reward or response that... rewardreinforcing stimulus
4 noun · something added to give... strengthener
Word family
Forms reinforcements
Derived forms interreinforcementnonreinforcementreoself-reinforcement
Related forms punishment

Etymology

From reinforce + -ment.

Topics

markdown

Send feedback

Optional — only if you'd like a reply.