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fester

verb

/ˈfɛstə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of fester

To become increasingly worse or more intense over time, often in the context of negative emotions, problems, or wounds.
"The lack of communication allowed misunderstandings to fester and escalate."

Detailed meaning of fester

When a situation or issue 'festers,' it means that it is left unresolved or unattended, allowing it to grow and worsen. This term conveys the idea of something lingering and worsening, often causing discomfort, anger, or resentment. 'Fester' is commonly used to describe the persistence and intensification of negative feelings, such as grudges, grievances, or conflicts, that can become increasingly problematic if not addressed or resolved. It underscores the importance of addressing issues promptly to prevent them from escalating or lingering.

Example sentences containing fester

1. His resentment began to fester, poisoning their relationship.
2. Neglected tasks tend to fester and become more challenging over time.
3. The conflict between the two nations continued to fester, with no resolution in sight.
4. Unresolved issues can fester within a team, hindering productivity.
5. The stagnant water allowed bacteria to fester, creating a breeding ground for disease.
6. If you don't address your emotions, they can fester and affect your mental well-being.

History and etymology of fester

The verb 'fester' has its origins in Old French, where it appeared as 'festir' and meant 'to fester' or 'to suppurate.' This Old French term was derived from the Latin word 'festum,' which referred to a sore or ulcer. The Latin word 'festum' itself is believed to be connected to 'fervēre,' which means 'to boil' or 'to seethe.' Over time, 'fester' transitioned into English and took on the meaning of something, often negative emotions, problems, or wounds, becoming increasingly worse or more intense over time. Its etymology aptly conveys the idea of something simmering or boiling beneath the surface, mirroring the gradual worsening or intensification of issues or emotions that 'fester' describes.

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Further usage examples of fester

1. Ignored grievances can fester and lead to a toxic work environment.
2. The garbage left outside in the summer heat caused the trash to fester and attract flies.
3. An untreated infection can fester and spread to other parts of the body.
4. When left untreated, small problems can fester into larger and more complicated issues.
5. The disagreement between the siblings continued to fester, causing tension within the family.
6. If you let negativity fester, it can poison your outlook on life.
7. The unresolved conflict began to fester, causing a divide within the community.
8. The decaying food in the refrigerator began to fester, producing a nauseating smell.
9. Lingering doubts and insecurities can fester, undermining self-confidence.
10. Failing to address a problem can cause it to fester and worsen over time.
11. The unresolved trauma continued to fester, impacting her daily life.
12. Ignored issues tend to fester, eventually demanding attention in more disruptive ways.
13. The wound started to fester, emitting a foul odor.
14. Resentment can fester and poison even the strongest relationships.
15. Ignoring a minor issue can allow it to fester into a major problem.
16. Unaddressed grievances tend to fester, leading to workplace tension.
17. Neglecting self-care can cause stress to fester within oneself.
18. Hatred left unchecked has the power to fester into something dangerous.
19. A neglected wound can fester, leading to complications.
20. Lingering doubts can fester and erode one's confidence over time.
21. When secrets are kept, they tend to fester and harm trust.
22. Long-standing conflicts often fester and escalate into violence.
23. Bitterness can fester within a person, affecting their overall happiness.
24. Problems in a community can fester if not addressed promptly.