A tower of strength

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Meaning

A reliably strong and supportive person or institution during difficulty. Normally complimentary and applied to sustained support, not merely physical power. Regional use: British liturgical origin; now international English.

Origin

The Book of Common Prayer of 1549 asks God to be 'a tower of strength', using a defensive tower as an image of protection. Shakespeare reused the wording in Richard III, where a king's name is political strength, but he did not originate it. Modern use most often transfers the image to a person who provides practical or emotional support.

Research Sources

  1. Tower of strength Phrase Finder
  2. Tower of strength Merriam-Webster

Variants

  • Tower of strength
  • Be a tower of strength

Usage Examples

  • Mina was a tower of strength throughout the long appeal.
  • The volunteer network became a tower of strength after the flood.
  • He thanked his sister for being a tower of strength to the whole family.

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