foment
verb (used with object)
to instigate or foster (discord, rebellion, etc.); promote the growth or development of.
fomented
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past participleof foment.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof foment.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
fomentverb (used with object)to instigate or foster (discord, rebellion, etc.); promote the growth or development of.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The paranoia and fear fomented by the sweeping immigration crackdown in the Midwestern state has led many migrants -- both those with legal status and those without -- to shelter at home, campaigners say.
From Barron's ● Jan. 30, 2026
But it’s the lack of transparency and the 11-month delay in reporting the reading that has fomented community mistrust and raised questions regarding the military’s competency to safely clean up the polluted shipyard.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 7, 2025
Ms. Nadell is convincing that anti-Israel movements have fomented antisemitism.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 22, 2025
The horrific images that have emerged from the area during these hellish recent months have fomented a sea change in the dialogue around it.
From Slate ● Aug. 5, 2025
Lander’s rhetoric inflamed passions; he fomented rebellion; he was too uppity to allow to run free.
From "The Underground Railroad: A Novel" by Colson Whitehead
