Synonym Chooser

How does the verb embolden differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of embolden are encourage, hearten, and inspirit. While all these words mean "to fill with courage or strength of purpose," embolden implies the giving of courage sufficient to overcome timidity or reluctance.

emboldened by her first success, she tried an even more difficult climb

When might encourage be a better fit than embolden?

While the synonyms encourage and embolden are close in meaning, encourage suggests the raising of one's confidence especially by an external agency.

the teacher's praise encouraged the students to greater efforts

When could hearten be used to replace embolden?

Although the words hearten and embolden have much in common, hearten implies the lifting of dispiritedness or despondency by an infusion of fresh courage or zeal.

a hospital patient heartened by good news

When is inspirit a more appropriate choice than embolden?

The words inspirit and embolden are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, inspirit, somewhat literary, implies instilling life, energy, courage, or vigor into something.

patriots inspirited the people to resist

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of embolden In case this movie’s denser-than-ever design wasn’t already destined to embolden the laziest of Anderson’s critics, a plot incited by the price of bashable rivets should certainly do the trick. David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 18 May 2025 Initially doubtful of her claim to survivor status, she’s emboldened by her female friends to speak openly of her experience, which in turn becomes the cause célèbre that carries the entire movement. Guy Lodge, Variety, 17 May 2025 There’s also a sense of unease, as some activists warn that the Perlmutter firing could have an emboldening effect on tech companies eager to gobble up existing data. Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 14 May 2025 China’s military buildup and its assessment of the United States’ stagnation has also emboldened Beijing to act more assertively to shape the behavior of smaller countries in the region. Tong Zhao, Foreign Affairs, 2 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for embolden
Recent Examples of Synonyms for embolden
Verb
  • On-site programming at Mountain Modern embraces Sedona's mystical vibes with crystal bowl sound baths, mindful meditation and breath work sessions, and ceremonies inspired by Indigenous traditions.
    Annie Archer, Travel + Leisure, 27 May 2025
  • Selling such toys violates a New York law inspired by police encounters that have resulted in fatalities because the guns, though harmless, look like actual firearms.
    Ross O'Keefe, The Washington Examiner, 27 May 2025
Verb
  • There is no fee to nominate and self-nominations are encouraged.
    Post-Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 26 May 2025
  • Inner reflection is encouraged with Mercury in Gemini.
    USA TODAY, USA Today, 25 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Embolden.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/embolden. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.

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