/ ˌriːɪnˈfɔːs; NAmE -ˈfɔːrs/ verb [ vn ]
1.
to make a feeling, an idea, etc. stronger :
Such jokes tend to reinforce racial stereotypes.
The climate of political confusion has only reinforced the country's economic decline.
Success in the talks will reinforce his reputation as an international statesman.
2.
to make a structure or material stronger, especially by adding another material to it :
All buildings are now reinforced to withstand earthquakes.
reinforced steel
3.
to send more people or equipment in order to make an army, etc. stronger :
The UN has undertaken to reinforce its military presence along the borders.
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WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English : from French renforcer , influenced by inforce , an obsolete spelling of enforce ; the sense of providing military support is probably from Italian rinforzare .