Answer:

girds

Answer	Crossword Clue
GIRDS	Binds with a belt
GIRDS	Braces
GIRDS	Encircles

GIRDS	Stiffens
GIRDS	Strengthens
GIRDS	Hems in
GIRDS	Prepares, as for action
GIRDS	Binds up
GIRDS	Fastens up.
GIRDS	Braces.
GIRDS	Equips.

GIRDS	Encircles.
GIRDS	Surrounds.
GIRDS	Prepares for action
GIRDS	Surrounds
GIRDS	Binds
GIRDS	Fortifies
GIRDS	Fastens with a band
GIRDS	Tightens, as a belt

GIRDS	Encircles with a belt
GIRDS	Steels (oneself)
GIRDS	Reinforces
GIRDS	Secures with a band

Crossword

a puzzle consisting of a grid of squares and blanks into which words crossing vertically and horizontally are written according to clues.