fester

/ˈfɛstər/
verb
  1. (of a wound or sore) to become infected and produce pus.
    • The small cut on his finger began to fester after he ignored it for days.
    • The doctor warned that the deep scrape could fester if not treated with antiseptic.
    • If you don't clean the wound properly, it will fester and get worse.
  2. (of a problem, feeling, or situation) to become worse or more bitter over time, especially when not dealt with.
    • The disagreement between the neighbors festered for months, turning into a full-blown feud.
    • Unresolved issues in a relationship can fester and eventually destroy trust.
    • Her resentment toward her coworker continued to fester long after the argument.
Antonyms
noun
  1. A sore that has become infected and produces pus.
    • The old fester finally healed after a week of treatment.
    • The nurse cleaned the fester on his arm and applied a bandage.
    • He had a painful fester on his foot that made walking difficult.
What does "fester" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean