verb / noun

boost

BOOST/buːst/

An upward push that increases position or strength.

She gives him a boost over the wall.

A woman gives a man a physical boost over a low outdoor obstacle wall, pushing his planted foot upward with both hands while he pulls onto the top.

Etymology

Boost is recorded with the image of lifting something by pushing from behind, both literally and figuratively. That upward push captures its use for helping something increase or improve, though its origin is unknown.

In context

America's Test Kitchen6:42

Now for a nutrition boost, a lot of people like to boost their smoothies using healthy add-ins like flax seeds or whey protein

For Better Smoothies, Use These Tricks | Joe vs. The Test Kitchen

More examples

The grant gave the project a welcome boost.
The good news boosts her confidence.
They boosted production before the holiday.

Forms

boost · boosts · boosted · boosting

Similar words

lift: The broader upward movement or help.
shove: A forceful push without necessarily upward direction.