Bolstered up is a phrase meaning to support or strengthen something. The spelling of "bolstered up" can be broken down phonetically: /bˈoʊl.stərd ʌp/. The first syllable is pronounced with a long "o" sound, followed by the stressed syllable "stərd" with a short "u" sound. The final syllable, "up," is pronounced with a short "u" sound. Together, this word is spelled with an "o" in the first syllable, an "e" in the second syllable, and the common ending "-ed" in the past tense form.
The phrase "bolstered up" is an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of providing support, reinforcement, or assistance to someone or something in order to strengthen or fortify it. It typically implies the provision of physical or emotional support to help someone overcome difficulties, challenges, or weaknesses.
In a literal sense, "bolstered up" refers to propping or supporting an object or structure to prevent it from collapsing or falling apart. This could involve using additional materials, such as pillows, cushions, or braces, to reinforce or stabilize an object.
In a figurative sense, "bolstering up" is often used to describe the act of offering encouragement, reassurance, or aid to someone who may be feeling weak, demotivated, or insecure. This could involve providing emotional support, offering praise or recognition, or lending a helping hand to enhance someone's self-confidence, morale, or sense of well-being.
The phrase can also be applied to abstract concepts or ideas. For example, it can describe the act of strengthening an argument or position by providing evidence, examples, or logical reasoning. In this context, "bolstered up" suggests that additional support is being provided in order to make an idea or argument more convincing or robust.
In summary, "bolstered up" refers to the act of reinforcing, supporting, or fortifying someone or something physically, emotionally, or intellectually to enhance its stability, strength, or effectiveness.
The word "bolstered up" consists of two elements: "bolster" and "up".
- "Bolster" comes from the Old English word "bolster" which originally referred to a long pillow or cushion. It is derived from the Middle English word "bolstre" and ultimately from the Old French word "boulstre", both meaning a cushion or pad. The Old French term can be traced back to the Late Latin word "bullitris", which also referred to a cushion.
- "Up" is a preposition that has Old English roots dating back to the 9th century. It has remained relatively unchanged in terms of its meaning over time, denoting an upward direction, a higher position, or an increase or improvement.
When the two words are combined, "bolstered up" typically means providing support or reinforcement to someone or something, as if propping them up with a cushion or padding.