The Collaborative International Dictionary
Fever \Fe"ver\ (f[=e]"v[~e]r), n. [OE. fever, fefer, AS. fefer, fefor, L. febris: cf. F. fi[`e]vre. Cf. Febrile.]
-
(Med.) A diseased state of the system, marked by increased heat, acceleration of the pulse, and a general derangement of the functions, including usually, thirst and loss of appetite. Many diseases, of which fever is the most prominent symptom, are denominated fevers; as, typhoid fever; yellow fever.
Note: Remitting fevers subside or abate at intervals; intermitting fevers intermit or entirely cease at intervals; continued or continual fevers neither remit nor intermit.
-
Excessive excitement of the passions in consequence of strong emotion; a condition of great excitement; as, this quarrel has set my blood in a fever.
An envious fever Of pale and bloodless emulation.
--Shak.After life's fitful fever he sleeps well.
--Shak.Brain fever, Continued fever, etc. See under Brain, Continued, etc.
Fever and ague, a form of fever recurring in paroxysms which are preceded by chills. It is of malarial origin.
Fever blister (Med.), a blister or vesicle often found about the mouth in febrile states; a variety of herpes.
Fever bush (Bot.), the wild allspice or spice bush. See Spicewood.
Fever powder. Same as Jame's powder.
Fever root (Bot.), an American herb of the genus Triosteum ( Triosteum perfoliatum); -- called also feverwort and horse gentian.
Fever sore, a carious ulcer or necrosis.
--Miner.