brace (EN)

noun, verb

noun “brace”

1. a device used to keep objects together or in the right position
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   The carpenter used a metal brace to keep the wooden beams in place.
2. the symbol "{" or "}"
   In the code, make sure to close each brace properly to avoid errors.
3. (only plural in the US) a dental tool made of wires and bands that helps straighten teeth
   She wore a brace (= braces in the US) for two years to straighten her teeth.
4. two goals scored by one player in football (soccer) game
   In yesterday's match, Alex scored a brace, leading his team to victory.

verb “brace”

1. to get ready for something difficult or unpleasant that is about to happen
   She braced herself for the bad news from the doctor.
2. push your body or a part of it firmly against something to keep from falling
   She braced herself against the wall to keep from slipping on the ice.
3. to adjust the sails of a ship for better wind direction control
   The sailors had to brace the yards quickly to catch the changing wind.
4. to confront (someone with tough questions)
   The reporters braced the politician with tough questions about the new policy.
5. to add supports to something to make it stronger
   The workers braced the old bridge with steel supports to prevent it from collapsing.
6. to tighten (your muscles) in preparation for a hard physical activity
   She braced her torso before lifting the heavy box.