for·ti·fy [ fáwrtə f ](past and past participlefor·ti·fied, present participlefor·ti·fy·ing, 3rd person present singularfor·ti·fies)
transitive verb
Definition:
1. make place safer: to make a place less susceptible to attack by building or creating defensive structures such as walls, ditches, or ramparts
2. make something stronger: to strengthen or reinforce the structure of something fortify a sea wall
3. add ingredients to something: to add further ingredients to food or drink in order to improve its flavor or add nutrients
(
usually passive
)
breakfast cereal fortified with vitamins
4. encourage somebody: to give somebody physical, mental, or moral strength or encouragement
5. make something more powerful: to make something more powerful or persuasive fortify an argument
[15th century. Via French fortifier< late Latin fortificare "make strong" < Latin fortis "strong"]
