What does embolden mean?
"Embolden" is a transitive verb meaning to give someone the courage or confidence to do something, often something they might otherwise hesitate to attempt. Formed from the prefix "em-" (meaning "to make") combined with the adjective "bold," it literally means "to make bold." The word is commonly encountered in phrases such as "emboldened by success" or "her supporters were emboldened by her speech." It appears most frequently in written and formal contexts — journalism, literature, and political commentary — where it describes how encouragement, victory, or reassurance strengthens someone's resolve. While its connotation is usually positive or admiring, it can occasionally carry a note of caution, as in critics who claim that flattery emboldens poor behavior. A useful alternative to "encourage," it emphasizes courage specifically rather than general support, making it a precise and vivid choice for writers describing moments of newfound confidence.
verbTo give someone the courage or confidence to do something, especially something bold or difficult.
- To give someone courage or confidence to act, especially boldly or daringly.
"The encouraging crowd emboldened her to attempt the climb."
"The early success emboldened the team to pursue an even riskier strategy."
"Emboldened by the supportive reviews, she finally submitted her manuscript."
It takes a whole word — "em" plus "bold" — just to describe what one kind word can do.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of embolden
"Embolden" was formed in English during the 16th century from the prefix "em-" (from Old French "en-", ultimately Latin) attached to the adjective "bold," which descends from Old English "bald" meaning brave or confident. It follows the same productive pattern that produced verbs like "enable" and "enliven." Its closest relatives are simply the other derivatives of "bold" — "boldly," "boldness" — rather than foreign cognates.
Related word forms
How embolden is actually used
Typically used in formal or neutral registers and frequently appears in the passive construction "emboldened by...". It carries a generally positive connotation, though it can be neutral or slightly negative when describing reckless confidence.
Easily confused with embolden
"Embolden" means to give courage, while "beholden" is an adjective meaning obligated or indebted to someone.