1To encourage or cheer someone, giving them support or lifting their spirits.
テストで落ち込んでいる妹を励ました。
I encouraged my younger sister who was depressed about the test.
コーチは選手たちを励まして試合に送り出した。
The coach cheered on the players and sent them out to the game.
励ます言葉一つで気持ちが楽になることもある。
Sometimes a single encouraging word can make someone feel better.
2(dated) To raise or strengthen one's voice (an older/archival usage).
古い記録では、演説者が声を励まして聴衆に訴えたと書かれている。
In old records it is written that the speaker raised his voice and appealed to the audience.