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 Advocates say the move could further embolden cities and police departments to marginalize homeless people. by Nicole Santa Cruz Change Appearance Republish ProPublica is a nonprofit newsroom that investigates abuses of power. Nicole Santa Cruz, ProPublica, 23 May 2025 Their reckless, soft-on-crime policies emboldened criminals and thugs; wreaked havoc on the sanctity of our homes, businesses, and public spaces; instilled fear; and jeopardized public trust. Jenna Dejong, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 May 2025 By the preseason, Miller had become so emboldened by his new routine that his mindset was overtly positive. Steve Reaven, Chicago Tribune, 15 May 2025 And under Trump, the American police state is especially emboldened and empowered to run rampant over our rights and our lives. Rod Adams, Essence, 25 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
  • In order to protect his brother, Gi-jun encouraged Ju-woon and Bong-san to stage a coup.
    Kayti Burt, Time, 6 June 2025
  • Trump reportedly encouraged Vance to strike a diplomatic tone publicly.
    Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 June 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Embolden.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/embolden. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on embolden

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!