Fester: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is typically used to describe a wound or sore that becomes infected over time. It can also be used metaphorically to describe negative emotions or situations that worsen because they are ignored.

• If you don't clean the wound properly, it will fester.
• Her resentment towards him began to fester over the years.

This word is used when harmful bacteria or viruses invade the body, causing disease. It can also be used in a metaphorical sense to describe the spreading of harmful ideas or feelings.

• The doctor said the cut might infect if it's not treated.
• His pessimism began to infect the whole team.

This term is specifically used for medical or scientific descriptions related to wounds producing pus.

• The doctor noted that the ulcer had begun to suppurate.
• An untreated abscess will eventually suppurate.

Putrefy is used in the context of organic matter decaying or rotting, often producing a foul smell. This term can be used metaphorically to describe something that is becoming morally corrupt.

• The meat began to putrefy in the heat.
• Corruption has putrefied the entire institution.

Typically used to describe something that is worsening or becoming more intense over time, often in a negative sense, like a wound or a problem that is not addressed.

• If you don't address the issue now, it will only fester and become worse.

Commonly used to describe the process of preparing something over time, like tea or beer, but can also refer to a situation or feeling that is developing.

• She could sense trouble brewing in the distance.
• He likes to brew his own beer at home.

Generally used to describe something that burns slowly without visible flames, often used figuratively to talk about suppressed emotions or tensions that are building up.

• The campfire continued to smolder long after they left.
• His anger smoldered beneath the surface, waiting to explode at any moment.

Used mainly in the context of chemical processes and food production, such as making yogurt or wine, but can also describe the development of agitation or excitement in a social or political context.

• The grapes need time to ferment before they become wine.
• The political unrest began to ferment among the population.

Describes a wound or sore becoming infected and filled with pus. Often used to describe a situation or feeling that gets worse and worse.

• If you don't clean the cut, it might fester.
• His anger continued to fester over time.

A swollen area within body tissue, containing an accumulation of pus. In medical contexts or discussions about health.

• The dentist had to drain an abscess in her gum.
• He developed an abscess after the surgery.

A small blister or pimple on the skin containing pus. Typically used in dermatological or cosmetic contexts.

• Acne can sometimes cause pustules to form on the skin.
• The rash turned into painful pustules.

An open sore on an external or internal surface of the body, often causing pain. Commonly used in medical discussions about chronic conditions.

• He was diagnosed with a stomach ulcer.
• The patient has a severe ulcer on his leg.