Encourages is an action word that means to inspire or motivate someone to do something. The crossword solutions for this term are SPURS (5 letters), PATS (4 letters), ABETS (5 letters), PRODS (5 letters), URGES (5 letters), EGGSON (6 letters), FOMENTS (7 letters), FOSTERS (7 letters), URGESON (7 letters), ANIMATES (8 letters), and HEARTENS (8 letters). Each of these words has a similar meaning to encourages, but with slightly different nuances. For example, spurs can mean to urge someone on, while pats can mean to give someone a pat on the back as a sign of encouragement. ABETS can mean to assist someone in doing something, while PRODS can mean to push someone to do something. Urges can mean to strongly suggest something, while eggson can mean to encourage someone to take action. FOMENTS can mean to stir up enthusiasm, while FOSTERS can mean to nurture and support someone. Urgeson can mean to urge someone to continue, while animates can mean to bring something to life. Finally, HEARTENS can mean to give someone courage and hope.