Fever \Fe"ver\, n. [OE. fever, fefer, AS. fefer, fefor, L.
febris: cf. F. fi[`e]vre. Cf. Febrile.]
1. (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.
2. 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 (T. perfoliatum); -- called also feverwort
amd horse gentian.
Fever sore, a carious ulcer or necrosis. --Miner.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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