What is the meaning of braced?

verb

• Prepare (oneself) for something unpleasant or difficult.
  • synonyms: brace, poise
• Support or hold steady and make steadfast, with or as if with a brace.
  • usage: "brace your elbows while working on the potter's wheel"
  • synonyms: brace, steady, stabilize, stabilise
• Support by bracing.
  • synonyms: brace
• Cause to be alert and energetic.
  • usage: "Coffee and tea stimulate me"; "This herbal infusion doesn't stimulate"
  • synonyms: stimulate, arouse, brace, energize, energise, perk up

adjective

• Positioned so as to be ready for confrontation or danger.
  • usage: "he stood to attention with his shoulders braced"
• Held up by braces or buttresses.
  • synonyms: buttressed