n.
1.a support that steadies or strengthens something else
2.two items of the same kind
3.a set of two similar things considered as a unit
4.either of two punctuation marks ({ or }) used to enclose textual material
5.a rope on a square-rigged ship that is used to swing a yard about and secure it
6.elastic straps that hold trousers up (usually used in the plural)
7.an appliance that corrects dental irregularities
8.the stock of a tool used for turning a drilling bit
9.a structural member used to stiffen a framework brace v.
1.prepare (oneself) for something unpleasant or difficult
2.support or hold steady and make steadfast, with or as if with a brace
3.support by bracing
4.cause to be alert and energetic