Supportive
/səˈpɔːrtɪv/
Definitions
2 meaningsProviding encouragement or help.
/səˈpɔːrtɪv/
Giving help, encouragement, or approval
The community showed a supportive attitude towards the new initiative.
💡 Simply: Imagine your best friend always cheering you on and helping you when things are tough. That's being supportive. They are your biggest fan, always there to help you get back up or achieve your dreams. For example, your parents might be supportive when you try out for a sports team. Or maybe your friends are supportive of your ideas.
👶 For kids: Being nice and helpful to someone when they need it, like saying 'Good job!' or helping them when they're sad.
More Examples
She offered a supportive shoulder to cry on.
His supportive nature made him a great friend.
How It's Used
"Her family was very supportive of her career choice."
"The therapist provided a supportive environment for the patient."
"Teachers should be supportive of their students' efforts."
Providing physical or structural assistance.
/səˈpɔːrtɪv/
Providing physical or structural support
The pillars provided supportive structure for the roof.
💡 Simply: Imagine a bridge holding up cars. Or think of a really good bra! It provides physical support! If something is supportive, it helps hold something up or keeps it from falling apart. Like a fence that supports the plants in your garden.
👶 For kids: Helping to hold something up or keep it from falling.
More Examples
The therapist gave the patient supportive treatment.
The supportive frame provided protection.
How It's Used
"The supportive beams held up the structure."
"Supportive care includes measures taken to help patients cope with their illness."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From support + -ive. 'Support' comes from Old French 'supporter' (to bear, endure, help), ultimately from Latin 'supportare' (to carry, endure). The suffix '-ive' indicates a tendency or quality.
The word 'supportive' has been used since the late 18th century, initially in the sense of providing aid or assistance. Over time it extended to encompass emotional support.
Memory tip
Think of someone giving you a boost when you need it.
Word Origin
"to carry or bear (support)"