WordGarden.iosupport
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /səpˈɔːt/
US
- /səˈpɔrt/
Meanings
Noun
help, backing, or encouragement
evidence or reasons that strengthen a claim or belief
something that holds another thing up or keeps it steady
Verb
to help, back, or sustain someone or something
to show or help show that something is true or justified
to hold something up or bear its weight
Beyond the definition
Support is not just about physically holding something up, though it can mean exactly that. Think of pillars holding up a large building or a strong beam keeping a roof in place. Beyond the physical sense, support also means giving help, encouragement, or approval. A teacher supports students by helping them learn, and friends support each other in hard times. You might support a cause you believe in by giving money or offering your time. The word comes from the Latin supportare, meaning "to carry from below," which fits the idea of bearing weight and helping something stay steady.
The word "support" has a broad range of meanings, all stemming from the core idea of providing assistance or holding something up, both literally and figuratively. At its most basic level, support means to bear all or part of the weight of an object or person. Think of crutches supporting an injured leg or a foundation supporting a house.
However, "support" extends far beyond physical aid. It often refers to emotional encouragement: "My family provided me with incredible support as I pursued my dreams." It can also mean providing financial assistance, such as when a charity receives support from generous donors. Furthermore, you can support a political candidate, a sports team, or a specific viewpoint, meaning you advocate for their success or back their efforts.
In logic and communication, "support" is also used for evidence. For example, "the facts do not support his claim" means there is no proof to back it up. In technology, "technical support" means professional help with troubleshooting and fixing problems. Even in music, a "supporting" role can mean adding harmony or rhythm to help the main performer. Finally, the word has a specific legal meaning in "child support," which refers to money paid for a child's care. Whether you are lending a hand, offering a shoulder to cry on, or providing proof for an argument, "support" is always about strengthening something and helping it stand firm.
Examples
- 1
Family help
My family supported me when I started my own business.
- 2
Financial independence
She supports herself by teaching music online.
- 3
Public policy
Most local doctors support the new smoking ban.
- 4
Evidence
The evidence doesn't support that claim.
- Patternsupport a claim
show that it is likely to be true
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Physical structure
The roof is supported by thick stone walls.
- 6
Software features
This app supports Spanish, French, and Korean.
- Domainin software, supports X
can use or work with X
- 7
Public opinion
Support for the new bus route has grown quickly.
- Patternsupport for + plan/idea
approval of it
- 8
Emotional support
After the funeral, he got a lot of support from friends and neighbors.
- 9
Workplace help
Her manager supported her in asking for more training.
- 10
Customer service
If you can't log in, contact customer support.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- supportnounverb
Forms
- supporting-ing formverbnoun
- supportedpast tenseverbnoun
- supportspluralnounverb