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Foment - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Foment means to stir up or encourage trouble, rebellion, or unrest, often deliberately. It is typically used in contexts where someone incites discontent or agitation among others.

foment

/foʊˈmɛnt/ /fəʊˈmɛnt/

Definition:

To instigate or stir up trouble, rebellion, or discontent.

Synonyms:

Incite, provoke, agitate, instigate

Part of Speech:

Verb

Antonyms:

Quell, suppress

Common Collocations:

Foment rebellion, foment dissent, foment unrest

Derivatives:

Fomentation, fomenter

Usage Tips:

Use "foment" to describe deliberate actions that provoke unrest or agitation, often in political or social contexts.

Common Phrases:

Foment trouble, foment a riot, foment discord

Etymology:

From Latin *fomentum*, meaning "poultice" or "incitement," via Old French *fomenter*.

Examples:

  • 1. The politician was accused of trying to foment unrest among the workers.
  • 2. Rumors can foment fear and distrust in a community.
  • 3. His speech aimed to foment rebellion against the government.
  • 4. She denied trying to foment discord within the team.
  • 5. The article sought to foment debate about climate change policies.

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