Foster

Definition

To foster means to encourage the development or growth of ideas or feelings, or to take care of someone else's child in one's home for a period of time.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɔstər/
• Respelling: FAW-stər (with "FAW" as in "saw" and "stər" as in "stir")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɒstə/
• Respelling: FOS-tuh (with "FOS" as in "boss" and "tuh" as in "sofa")

In both dialects, "foster" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "FAW" in American English and "FOS" in British English. The pronunciation differs slightly, focusing on the clear articulation of "FAW-stər" in American English and "FOS-tuh" in British English.

Etymology

Derived from Old English fōstrian, which means "to nourish or rear". This reflects the action of nurturing or bringing up.

Derivatives

• Fosterage (noun)
• Fosterer (noun)
• Foster parent (noun)
• Foster child (noun)
• Fostering (verb/noun)

Synonyms

• Nourish
• Cultivate
• Promote

Antonyms

• Neglect
• Suppress
• Discourage

Usage

"Foster" is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts. In a literal sense, it often refers to the act of caring for a child who is not one's own, usually within a system of temporary or long-term foster care. Figuratively, "foster" is used to describe actions that promote or encourage the growth, development, or success of ideas, relationships, or projects.

Related Terms

• Adoption
• Guardian
• Caregiver
• Nurturing
• Upbringing

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To Nurture or Support Growth: Refers to the act of encouraging or helping something to develop or grow.
  • Example: The teacher's goal was to foster a love of reading in her students.

• To Care for a Child Temporarily: Describes the act of raising and caring for a child who is not biologically one's own, often within a foster care system.
  • Example: They decided to foster a child while the biological parents were unable to care for him.

‍Adjective

• Involving or Related to Foster Care: Used to describe a relationship or situation involving the temporary care of a child.
  • Example: The foster parents provided a loving home for the child during a difficult time.