SUPPORTER, n. One that supports or maintains. 1. That which supports or upholds; a prop, a pillar, &c. The sockets and supporters of flowers are figured.2. A sustainer; a comforter. The saints have a companion and supporter in all their miseries.3. A maintainer; a defender. Worthy supporters of such a reigning impiety.4. One who maintains or helps to carry on; as the supporters of a war.5. An advocate; a defender; a vindicator; as the supporters of religion, morality, justice, &c.6. An adherent; one who takes part; as the supporter of a party or faction.7. In ship-building, a knee placed under the cat-head.8. Supporters, in heraldry, are figures of beasts that appear to support the arms.
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