Fester: meaning, definitions and examples

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fester

[ ˈfɛstər ]

^{Context #1}

infection

to become septic or to generate pus as a result of infection

Synonyms

infect, putrefy, suppurate

Examples of usage

The wound began to fester after he ignored it for too long.
The bacteria caused the cut to fester and become inflamed.

^{Context #2}

negative emotions

to become worse or more intense over time, typically due to neglect or inaction

Synonyms

brew, ferment, smolder

Examples of usage

If you let your anger fester, it will only cause more harm.
Ignoring the issue will only allow resentment to fester.

^{Context #3}

infection

a sore or wound that becomes inflamed, typically due to infection

Synonyms

abscess, pustule, ulcer

Examples of usage

The fester on his arm needed medical attention.
The doctor cleaned the fester and bandaged it.

Translations

Translations of the word "fester" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apodrecer

🇮🇳 सड़ना

🇩🇪 verfaulen

🇮🇩 membusuk

🇺🇦 гнити

🇵🇱 gnić

🇯🇵 腐る (kusaru)

🇫🇷 pourrir

🇪🇸 pudrirse

🇹🇷 çürümek

🇰🇷 썩다 (sseokda)

🇸🇦 يتعفن (yata'afan)

🇨🇿 hnít

🇸🇰 hniť

🇨🇳 腐烂 (fǔlàn)

🇸🇮 gniti

🇮🇸 rotna

🇰🇿 шіріту

🇬🇪 ლპობა (lpoba)

🇦🇿 çürümək

🇲🇽 pudrirse

Word origin

The word 'fester' originated from the Old French word 'festre', meaning 'ulcer' or 'sore'. It has been used in English since the 14th century. The concept of festering, particularly in the context of wounds or infections, has long been associated with the idea of neglect leading to worsening conditions. Over time, the word has evolved to also describe the worsening of negative emotions or situations due to inaction or lack of resolution.