bracing I. noun (-s) Etymology: from gerund of brace (II) : the act or action of binding, strengthening, or making rigid < the bracing of flood-damaged bridges > also: material used for such an act or action < beams, logs, and other bracing > II. adjective Etymology: from present participle of brace (II) : imparting strength, vigor, or freshness < bracing mountain air > • brac·ing·lyadverb • brac·ing·nessnoun-es