Langimage
English

fever

|fe/ver|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈfiːvər/

🇬🇧

/ˈfiːvə/

high temperature

Etymology
Etymology Information

'fever' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'fēfor', which was derived from Latin 'febris', meaning 'fever'.

Historical Evolution

'fēfor' transformed into the Middle English word 'fever', and eventually became the modern English word 'fever'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a high body temperature', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an abnormally high body temperature, usually accompanied by shivering, headache, and in severe instances, delirium.

She had a high fever and needed to see a doctor.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a state of nervous excitement or agitation.

The city was in a fever of excitement before the big game.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35