To prepare for something difficult or unpleasant. She braced herself for the impact of the bad news.
To support or hold steady with or as if with a brace. He braced the shelf with a piece of wood to prevent it from collapsing.
To make a structure stronger or more stable. The engineers braced the bridge to withstand the heavy traffic.
To invigorate or refresh, especially by cold or brisk conditions. The crisp mountain air braced the hikers for the long trek ahead.