verb / adjective
foster
FAH-ster/ˈfɑːstər/
To nurture and support another's development.
The gardener fosters the sapling's growth by supporting its stem and watering its roots.
Etymology
The underlying image is nourishment and upbringing. Supplying food and care broadened into helping something grow, including encouraging the development of feelings and ideas.
In context
as individuals we can look for opportunities to make connections with persons of color among our neighbors our co-workers or our fellow students third we need to work harder to foster a genuine caring community
More examples
- Shared projects foster cooperation among neighbors.
- His foster parents help him feel safe and welcome.
- We are fostering two kittens until they find permanent homes.
Forms
foster · fosters · fostered · fostering