Meaning of the word buttress in English

What does buttress mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

buttress

US /ˈbʌt.rəs/
UK /ˈbʌt.rəs/
"buttress" picture

Noun

a projecting support of stone or brick built against a wall

Example:
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The ancient cathedral was supported by massive stone buttresses.
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The architect designed a series of flying buttresses for the new building.

Verb

1.

to provide a building or structure with projecting supports built against its walls

Example:
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They decided to buttress the old wall to prevent it from collapsing.
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The engineers had to buttress the bridge after the earthquake.
2.

to provide (someone or something) with moral or emotional support

Example:
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The community rallied to buttress the struggling local businesses.
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Her strong belief in justice helped to buttress her resolve.