\Re`["e]n*force"\ (-f?rs"), v. t. [Pref. re- +
enforce: cf. F. renforcer.]
To strengthen with new force, assistance, material, or
support; as, to re["e]nforce an argument; to re["e]nforce a
garment; especially, to strengthen with additional troops, as
an army or a fort, or with additional ships, as a fleet.
[Written also {reinforce}.]

\Re`["e]n*force"\, n. [See {Re["e]nforce}, v., and cf.
{Ranforce}, {Reinforce}.]
Something which re["e]nforces or strengthens. Specifically:
(a) That part of a cannon near the breech which is thicker
    than the rest of the piece, so as better to resist the
    force of the exploding powder. See Illust. of {Cannon}.
(b) An additional thickness of canvas, cloth, or the like,
    around an eyelet, buttonhole, etc.