(of a wound or sore) become septic; suppurate., become worse or more intense, especially through long-term neglect or indifference.

let sleeping dogs lie, a can of worms, a thorn in one's side

let something fester, a festering sore, a festering wound

Formal and Informal Expressions of fester

In different contexts, you can replace 'fester' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'suppurate, deteriorate' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'rot, go bad' is a commonplace synonym.

fester: Explore its Definition & Usage

fester Definition

1(of a wound or sore) become septic; suppurate.
2become worse or more intense, especially through long-term neglect or indifference.

Using fester: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "fester" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
If left untreated, the wound will fester and cause an infection.
Example
The resentment between them continued to fester over the years.
Example
The problem has been festering for a long time and needs to be addressed.
Example
The corruption in the company has been festering for years.

fester Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for fester

Antonyms for fester

Idioms Using fester

let sleeping dogs lie
avoid interfering in a situation that is currently causing no problems but may well do so as a result of such interference
Example
I know you're upset with your boss, but sometimes it's best to let sleeping dogs lie and not make things worse.
a can of worms
a complex, difficult, or awkward situation that is likely to become even more so if someone attempts to solve it
Example
I don't want to open up a can of worms, but we really need to address the issue of workplace harassment.
a thorn in one's side
a persistent difficulty or annoyance
Example
The lack of funding has been a thorn in the side of the research team for years.

Phrases with fester

let something fester
allow a problem or negative feeling to continue without addressing it
Example
You can't just let your anger fester inside you. You need to talk to someone about it.
a festering sore
a problem or issue that continues to worsen or cause harm
Example
The lack of communication between the two departments has become a festering sore for the company.
a festering wound
a physical wound that has become infected and is not healing properly
Example
The soldier's leg was badly injured in battle and had developed a festering wound.

Origins of fester

from Old English 'fæsterian', meaning 'to fatten'

📌

Summary: fester in Brief

'Fester' [ˈfɛstər] refers to the worsening of a situation, often due to neglect or indifference. It can also refer to a physical wound becoming infected. Examples include 'The resentment between them continued to fester over the years.' and 'If left untreated, the wound will fester and cause an infection.' Phrases like 'let something fester' and idioms like 'a can of worms' denote complex situations that are best left alone.