fester
verb/ˈfɛstər/
Frequency rank: #16,273 most common English word
Meaning
to become infected and filled with pus; or (of a problem) to grow worse over time.
Example sentence
If you leave the wound untreated, it will fester and become much worse.
Synonyms & related words
- infect
- suppurate
- worsen
- deteriorate
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