1. plural of bracing; structural supports or reinforcements that hold something firmly in place
Usage: commonly used in construction and engineering contexts
2. plural of bracing; the act or process of preparing oneself mentally or physically for something difficult or unpleasant
Usage: often used in the phrase 'bracing oneself'

Examples

• The engineers installed metal bracings to strengthen the bridge's framework.
• The wooden bracings held the old barn together for over a century.
• She was bracing herself for the difficult conversation ahead.
• The bracings on the roof prevented it from collapsing during the storm.
• Athletes spend time bracing themselves mentally before competition.
• The construction crew added diagonal bracings to improve structural stability.