Both Uses of
fortify
in
The Scarlet Letter
- Of an impulsive and passionate nature, she had fortified herself to encounter the stings and venomous stabs of public contumely, wreaking itself in every variety of insult; but there was a quality so much more terrible in the solemn mood of the popular mind, that she longed rather to behold all those rigid countenances contorted with scornful merriment, and herself the object.†
Chpt 2
- The prejudices which they shared in common with the latter were fortified in themselves by an iron frame-work of reasoning, that made it a far tougher labour to expel them.†
Chpt 13 *
Definition:
-
(fortify) to make strongerin various senses, including:
- to add defensive fortifications to a site to withstand attack -- as in "fortify the camp"
- to make a structure or organization stronger -- as in "fortify the wall"
- to inspire emotional and mental strength -- as in "fortify her spirits"
- to strengthen an argument -- as in "fortify our argument"
- to add nutrients to increase the healthfulness -- as in "bread fortified with folic acid and iron"
- to add alcohol to make a drink stronger and/or less prone to spoiling -- as in "port, sherry, madeira, and other fortified wines"