strengthen

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strength·en / ˈstreng(k)[unvoicedth]ən; ˈstren-/ • v. make or become stronger: [tr.] he advises an application of fluoride to strengthen the teeth | [intr.] the wind won't strengthen until after dark. PHRASES: strengthen someone's hand (or hands) enable or encourage a person to act more vigorously or effectively.DERIVATIVES: strength·en·er n.

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