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fomentation

[foh-men-tey-shuh n]
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SEE MORE SYNONYMS FOR fomentation ON THESAURUS.COM

noun

encouragement of discord, rebellion, etc.; instigation.
the application of warm liquid, ointments, etc., to the surface of the body.
the liquid, ointments, etc., so applied.

RELATED WORDS

laundry, bath, soaking, bathing, plaster, compress, dressing, cataplasm, ablution, maundy, lavage, lavation, lavabo

Origin of fomentation

1350–1400; Middle English < Late Latin fōmentātiōn- (stem of fōmentātiō), equivalent to fōmentāt(us) (past participle of fōmentāre to foment) + -iōn- -ion
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for fomentation

Historical Examples of fomentation

  • Renew the fomentation every five minutes for three-quarters-of-an-hour at least.

  • The fomentation may then be given once a day until the pain is removed.

  • Rub on a little oil when the fomentation comes off, and keep the head warm.

  • This explains our hot poultice and fomentation as used with cold cloths.

  • At intervals, as the patient feels it desirable, this fomentation may be renewed.

Word Origin and History for fomentation
n.

c.1400, from Late Latin fomentationem, noun of action from past participle stem of fomentare, from Latin fomentum (see foment).

Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
Medicine definitions for fomentation

fomentation

[fō′mən-tā′shən, -mĕn-]

n.

A substance or material used as a warm, moist medicinal compress; a poultice.
The therapeutic application of warmth and moisture, as to relieve pain.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.