Words / C2

BUTR-uh-s/ˈbʌtrəs/

A buttress is a projecting support for a wall, or something that reinforces an argument (also a verb: to buttress): a flying buttress, buttress a claim. Support (already in the dictionary) is everyday; a bulwark and a bastion (already in the dictionary) are a defensive wall and a stronghold of a cause. A slogan does not hold up an empty cell.

Meaning

A projecting support for a wall; also something that reinforces an argument (also a verb).

Examples

• “A slogan does not buttress an empty cell.”
• “Support is everyday (already in B1). A bulwark is a safeguard (already in C2). A bastion is a stronghold (already in C2). A dated figure can still prop a paper. A motto that never states the n is decoration. Write the number; then the architecture.”

Good to know

A prop; something that reinforces (also a verb). Everyday: support (already in this dictionary). Close: bulwark / bastion (already in C2). A slogan is not a prop.

Near in meaning

support, prop, reinforce, bolster

New