Definition

Noun: A person who provides exceptionally strong and reliable support, comfort, or stability, especially during difficult times.

Usage

This noun phrase is used to describe a person who acts as a dependable source of emotional or practical strength for others. It is typically used in a complimentary and appreciative manner.

Examples

• During the crisis, my sister was a real tower of strength.
• The coach has been a tower of strength for the team throughout this challenging season.
• He proved to be a tower of strength while she recovered from her illness.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often implies that the person's support was crucial and unwavering, like a strong, immovable structure.
• It can be used in both personal contexts (family, friends) and professional or public contexts (leaders, mentors).

Variants and Related Words

• Rock (noun, informal): A person who provides strong and dependable support.
  • Example: You've been my rock through all of this.
• Mainstay (noun): A person or thing that is a chief support or part.
  • Example: She is the mainstay of the department.

Synonyms

• Pillar of strength
• Strong support
• Dependable person
• Anchor

Antonyms

• Weak link
• Fair-weather friend

Related Idioms

• To be there for someone: To be available to support or help someone.
  • Example: I know I can always count on you to be there for me.
• A shoulder to cry on: Someone who listens sympathetically to your problems.
  • Example: After the bad news, she needed a shoulder to cry on.

Noun

1. a person who can be relied on to give a great deal of support and comfort