Noun

1. A support that steadies or strengthens something else
2. Two items of the same kind
3. A set of two similar things considered as a unit
4. Either of two punctuation marks ({ or }) used to enclose textual material
5. A rope on a square-rigged ship that is used to swing a yard about and secure it
6. Elastic straps that hold trousers up (usually used in the plural)
7. An appliance that corrects dental irregularities
8. A carpenter's tool having a crank handle for turning and a socket to hold a bit for boring
9. A structural member used to stiffen a framework

Verb

1. Prepare (oneself) for something unpleasant or difficult
2. Support or hold steady and make steadfast, with or as if with a brace
3. Support by bracing
4. Cause to be alert and energetic