buttress
US /ˈbʌt.rəs/
UK /ˈbʌt.rəs/
1.
a projecting support of stone or brick built against a wall
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The ancient cathedral was supported by massive stone buttresses.
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The architect designed a series of flying buttresses for the new building.
1.
to provide a building or structure with projecting supports built against its walls
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They decided to buttress the old wall to prevent it from collapsing.
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The engineers had to buttress the bridge after the earthquake.
2.
to provide (someone or something) with moral or emotional support
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The community rallied to buttress the struggling local businesses.
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Her strong belief in justice helped to buttress her resolve.