— buttressless , adj. — buttresslike , adj.
/bu"tris/ , n.
1. any external prop or support built to steady a structure by opposing its outward thrusts, esp. a projecting support built into or against the outside of a masonry wall.
2. any prop or support.
3. a thing shaped like a buttress, as a tree trunk with a widening base.
4. a bony or horny protuberance, esp. on a horse's hoof.
v.t.
5. to support by a buttress; prop up.
6. to give encouragement or support to (a person, plan, etc.).
[ 1350-1400; ME butres arc ) boterez thrusting (arch) nom. sing. of boteret (acc.), equiv. to boter- abutment (perh. 3 ) + -et -ET ]
Syn. 6. encourage, hearten, support, inspirit, brace, back up, reinforce, shore up.