buttress — a structure built against a wall to give it extra strength and support
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a structure built against a wall to give it extra strength and support
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈbʌtrəs/
Example Sentences
- The lawyer tried to buttress his weak case by bringing in celebrity witnesses.
- The government plans to buttress the economy with a massive stimulus package.
- Notre Dame's flying buttresses are both functional and beautiful architectural features.
buttress
NOUN[/ˈbʌtrəs/]
a structure built against a wall to give it extra strength and support
A series of stone columns stand as strong buttresses, reinforcing the tall walls of an ancient fortress.
Butt in a dress supports the wall with strength and style!
Buttress under stress — hold it up, no less.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Old French 'butresse,' derived from 'butter' meaning 'to push against' or 'to thrust,' combined with the suffix '-ess.' The word ultimately traces back to the concept of pushing or thrusting against something for support.
Breakdown
but- (to push/thrust against) + -ress (noun suffix indicating a structure or device) = buttress (a projecting structure that pushes against and supports a wall)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The lawyer tried to buttress his weak case by bringing in celebrity witnesses.”
“The government plans to buttress the economy with a massive stimulus package.”
“Notre Dame's flying buttresses are both functional and beautiful architectural features.”
“He buttressed his excuse for being late with a photo of the traffic jam.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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