I. noun
Synonyms: exponent , champion, expounder, proponent, supporter
II. verb
1.
Synonyms: encourage 2, countenance, favor
2.
Synonyms: support 2, back, backstop, champion, side (with), uphold
Related Word: justify, vindicate; advance, forward, promote
Idioms: hold a brief for
Contrasted words: assail, attack; combat, fight, oppose
Antonyms: impugn