fever

fe-ver · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An abnormally high body temperature, usually as a symptom of illness.

  2. 2.

    A state of nervous excitement or agitation.

Forms

plural: fevers

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    fever pitch — a state of intense excitement or activity
  • •
    cabin fever — restlessness from being confined indoors
  • •
    hay fever — an allergic reaction to pollen
  • •
    break a fever — when a fever suddenly decreases
  • •
    run a fever — to have an elevated temperature

Related words

See also: illness, sick, temperature
Synonyms: feverishness, pyrexia, temperature

Etymology

From Latin febris ("fever"), possibly related to fovere ("to warm"). Entered English through Old English fefor and Old French fievre.