fester

[ˈfɛstər]

fester Definition

• 1. (of a wound or sore) become septic; suppurate.
• 2. become 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

• rot
• decay
• putrefy
• worsen
• deteriorate

Antonyms for fester

• heal
• mend
• improve

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'

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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.