foster
FAW-ster
/ˈfɒs.tər/
To encourage or promote the development of something, typically something good.
Implies a gentle, sustained, and nurturing support over time, rather than a sudden or aggressive push.
The story behind the word. The word 'foster' is deeply connected to food. In Old English, 'fostrian' meant to feed or nourish. It was used to describe raising a child who was not biologically yours by providing them with food and shelter. Over the centuries, the physical act of feeding evolved into the metaphorical act of nurturing ideas, relationships, and environments.
Word relationships
- nurture: Nurture emphasizes feeding, protecting, and caring for something during its growth, while foster focuses more on creating the right environment for development to happen.
- promote: Promote is a more commercial or active term meaning to publicize or push something forward, whereas foster is gentler and more organic.
- stifle: To stifle is to suppress, suffocate, or prevent the development of something.
- discourage: To discourage is to try to prevent something from happening by showing disapproval or creating obstacles.
Commonly confused with
- force: Force implies using power or pressure to make something happen quickly, while foster implies encouraging growth naturally and patiently.
Word family
- fostering (noun): The act of encouraging or nurturing development.
Collocations
- foster growth
- foster innovation
- foster relationships
- foster a sense of
Example sentences
- "The company culture is designed to foster collaboration and open communication among teams." A corporate guide on workplace culture.
- "Teachers can foster creativity by allowing students to explore open-ended projects." An academic paper on education and creativity.
Memory hook
To foster is to act like a 'host' who feeds and cares for their guests. Foster is to feed and nurture growth.
When not to use
Do not use for negative developments (e.g., you do not 'foster' a disease, you 'foster' growth or cooperation).
Fun facts
- The words 'foster,' 'food,' and 'fodder' all share the same ancient Germanic root relating to nourishment.
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.