fortify

[ fawr-tuh-fahy ]
/ ˈfɔr təˌfaɪ /

verb (used with object), for·ti·fied, for·ti·fy·ing.

verb (used without object), for·ti·fied, for·ti·fy·ing.

to set up defensive works; erect fortifications.

Origin of fortify

1400–50; late Middle English fortifien < Middle French fortifier < Late Latin fortificāre, equivalent to Latin forti(s) strong + -ficāre -fy

OTHER WORDS FROM fortify

Example sentences from the Web for fortify

British Dictionary definitions for fortify

fortify
/ (ˈfɔːtɪˌfaɪ) /

verb -fies, -fying or -fied (mainly tr)

(also intr) to make (a place) defensible, as by building walls, digging trenches, etc
to strengthen physically, mentally, or morally
to strengthen, support, or reinforce (a garment, structure, etc)
to add spirits or alcohol to (wine), in order to produce sherry, port, etc
to increase the nutritious value of (a food), as by adding vitamins and minerals
to support or confirm to fortify an argument with facts

Derived forms of fortify

fortifiable, adjective fortifier, noun fortifyingly, adverb

Word Origin for fortify

C15: from Old French fortifier, from Late Latin fortificāre, from Latin fortis strong + facere to make