fester
What does "fester" mean?
To "fester" literally refers to a wound becoming infected and generating pus. Mentally, visualize a small cut that isn't cleaned properly, which then becomes inflamed, swollen, and increasingly painful as time passes. Beyond the physical, we use this word to describe negative feelings like resentment, anger, or bitterness that are left unaddressed. When an emotion festers, it stays hidden beneath the surface, growing more toxic and damaging the longer it is ignored.
"fester" in conversation
Discussing a workplace conflict
Are you still upset about the meeting yesterday?
Are you still upset about the meeting yesterday?
I don't want to talk about it, but I can feel the resentment festering.
I don't want to talk about it, but I can feel the resentment festering.
Used here to describe internal emotional turmoil.
Checking an injury
You need to keep that bandage clean.
You need to keep that bandage clean.
Why? Is it going to fester?
Why? Is it going to fester?
If you don't keep it dry, yes, it certainly will.
If you don't keep it dry, yes, it certainly will.
Used here in its original medical sense.
"fester" in a sentence
The small cut began to fester because it wasn't cleaned.
The small cut began to fester because it wasn't cleaned.
If you let your anger fester, it will eventually destroy your relationship.
If you let your anger fester, it will eventually destroy your relationship.
The political instability continued to fester in the region, leading to a long period of unrest.
The political instability continued to fester in the region, leading to a long period of unrest.
