: By the late 16th century, the term expanded beyond physical padding to describe the reinforcement of abstract concepts like morale or arguments. 2. Linguistic Definition
: While "bolster" can stand alone, adding "up" often emphasizes the act of propping something that might otherwise collapse or fail. bolster up
: It evolved into a verb in the mid-1500s, originally describing the act of women adding padding to their dresses or corsets to create a fuller shape. : By the late 16th century, the term
According to the Collins Dictionary , to "bolster up" means to something. : It evolved into a verb in the
: Unlike "cheer up," which implies a positive emotional boost, "bolster up" suggests providing necessary stability to a position or state that is currently weak or deteriorated. 3. Practical and Abstract Applications
The phrase is applied across various fields to describe the act of adding necessary substance or support: