brace

US /breɪs/
UK /breɪs/
"brace" picture
1.

a device that holds something firmly in place or supports and strengthens it

:
•
The carpenter used a brace to support the weak beam.
•
She had to wear a dental brace for two years.
:
supportpropreinforcementstaybuttress
2.

a pair of something, especially game birds

:
•
The hunter returned with a brace of pheasants.
•
He scored a brace of goals in the match.
:
paircoupleduo
1.

prepare (oneself) for something difficult or unpleasant

:
•
She had to brace herself for the bad news.
•
The company is bracing for a tough economic downturn.
:
preparereadysteelfortifystrengthen
2.

push (something) against something else in order to steady or strengthen it

:
•
He braced the ladder against the wall.
•
The strong winds caused the trees to brace against each other.
:
propsupportsteadysecurefasten