verb
fester
FEHS-tuh
Fester (verb) means to become infected and produce pus, as an untreated wound. Example: “The cut on his hand had begun to fester by the time he saw a doctor.”
verb
1
To become infected and produce pus, as an untreated wound.
"The cut on his hand had begun to fester by the time he saw a doctor."
2
To worsen over time, especially through neglect, as a problem or resentment.
"Their unresolved argument festered for months."
How to use fester
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishGetting worse over time when left untreated or unresolved — used for wounds, resentment, or problems generally.
Common pairings
fester into resentment
a festering wound
left to fester
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Word forms
- Plural
- festers
- Third person singular
- festers
- Past tense
- festered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The cut on his hand had begun to _____ by the time he saw a doctor.
Etymology
From Old French festre, from Latin fistula, "pipe, ulcer" — a doublet of the medical word fistula.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for fester
See all rhymes for fester →Frequently asked questions
What does “fester” mean?
The word “fester” means to become infected and produce pus, as an untreated wound. In plain terms, getting worse over time when left untreated or unresolved — used for wounds, resentment, or problems generally.
How do you pronounce “fester”?
“Fester” is pronounced FEHS-tuh (/ˈfɛstɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “fester” in a sentence?
Here is “fester” used in a sentence: “The cut on his hand had begun to fester by the time he saw a doctor.”
What part of speech is “fester”?
“Fester” is a verb.
Where does the word “fester” come from?
The word “fester” comes from Latin. From Old French festre, from Latin fistula, "pipe, ulcer" — a doublet of the medical word fistula.
How many meanings does “fester” have?
“Fester” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to become infected and produce pus, as an untreated wound.
