encourage

 
Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkʌrɪdʒ, ɛn-/

verb

[with object]
  • give support, confidence, or hope to (someone): we were encouraged by the success of this venture
  • [with object and infinitive] persuade (someone) to do or continue to do something by giving support and advice: pupils are encouraged to be creative
  • stimulate the development of (an activity, state, or belief): the intention is to encourage new writing talent

Derivatives

encourager

noun

Origin:

Middle English (formerly also as incourage): from French encourager, from en- 'in' + corage 'courage'