1. One that supports, as a structural member of a building.
2. One who promotes or advocates; an adherent: a supporter of capitalism.
3. An athletic supporter.
4. Heraldry. An animal or figure that supports a shield in a coat of arms.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.