Foster: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in the context of promoting growth or development, especially in a supportive or encouraging environment. It is also frequently used in the context of taking care of children who are not biologically yours.

• They worked hard to foster a sense of community in the neighborhood.
• The couple decided to foster a child who needed a loving home.

This word conveys a sense of care, attention, and encouragement given over time to help someone or something grow and develop. It usually has a softer, more emotional connotation and is used in both literal and figurative contexts.

• Parents play a crucial role in nurturing their children's talents.
• She has a special ability to nurture young plants.

This word is most commonly used when talking about bringing up children or animals from birth to maturity. It can also be used to discuss elevating something to a higher level or standard.

• They worked hard to raise their children in a loving environment.
• He raised the standard of living in the community through various initiatives.

This word is generally used to describe the act of providing assistance, encouragement, or resources to help someone or something succeed. It can apply to emotional, financial, or physical forms of assistance.

• Her family was there to support her throughout the difficult times.
• The school provides support for students with learning disabilities.

Use when talking about nurturing or supporting the development of something over time, especially in a protective or caring manner.

• Parents should foster a love for reading in their children.
• The organization aims to foster creativity among young artists.

Use when talking about advancing or actively supporting a cause, idea, or product, often in a formal or public manner.

• The government is working to promote healthy eating.
• They used social media to promote their new book.

Use when focusing on the gradual development or improvement of a skill, quality, or relationship, often implying effort and care.

• She worked hard to cultivate her public speaking skills.
• It's important to cultivate good relationships with colleagues.

Use when you want to give support, confidence, or hope to someone, often through praise or positive reinforcement.

• Teachers should encourage students to ask questions.
• Parents can encourage their children by praising their efforts.

To refer to the act of caring for a child as a temporary guardian, or to promote development or growth in a general sense.

• They decided to foster a child who needed a safe home.
• Teachers need to foster a love of reading in their students.

To describe a situation where care is provided for a limited period, often used in the context of emergency or short-term arrangements.

• The organization provides temporary care for children in crisis situations.
• He was in temporary care while his parents recovered from their accident.

To describe a home where a child is placed temporarily with a family that is not their biological family.

• The child was moved to a foster home after being separated from their parents.
• The agency is looking for more families willing to provide a foster home.

To refer to the act or process of placing a child into foster care or any other arranged position.

• The social worker is responsible for finding a safe placement for the children.
• She was awaiting placement with a new foster family.