encourage

[en-kur-ij, -kuhr-]

verb (used with object)

encouraged, encouraging 

1. to inspire with courage, spirit, or confidence.

   His coach encouraged him throughout the marathon race to keep on running.

   Synonyms: reassure, hearten, embolden
   Antonyms: dishearten, discourage

2. to stimulate by assistance, approval, etc..

   One of the chief duties of a teacher is to encourage students.

   Synonyms: help, aid, support, urge

3. to promote, advance, or foster.

   Poverty often encourages crime.

encourage

/ ɪnˈkʌrɪdʒ /

verb

1. to inspire (someone) with the courage or confidence (to do something)

2. to stimulate (something or someone to do something) by approval or help; support

Other Word Forms

• encouragingly adverb
• encouragement noun
• encouraging adjective
• encourager noun
• overencourage verb (used with object)
• preencourage verb (used with object)
• reencourage verb (used with object)
• unencouraged adjective
• unencouraging adjective
• well-encouraged adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of encourage¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English encoragen, from Anglo-French, Middle French encorag(i)er; en- ¹ ( def. ), courage ( def. )

Example Sentences

Her parents encouraged her to follow her other interests, which have in turned helped her grow as a footballer.

From BBC

The announcement, which was published on the company’s website and social media accounts Thursday, came just two days after the company encouraged people to sign up for memberships in an Instagram post.

From Los Angeles Times

Swedish boss Jeglertz put his own stamp on their style, making little tweaks and encouraging more dynamism from his team.

From BBC

That’s not exactly encouraging news since Colorado’s collection of prospects ranks in the bottom seven in baseball in multiple surveys.

From Los Angeles Times

In partnership with primary schools, children are given instruments and encouraged to develop their musical ability.

From BBC

Related Words

• advocate 
• aid 
• assist 
• bolster 
• boost 
• develop 
• ease 
• favor 
• further 
• improve 
• invite 
• promote 
• reassure 
• reinforce 
• spur 
• strengthen 
• subsidize 
• support