Foster Meaning
Foster Definition & Usage
To encourage the development or growth of something; to nurture.
Examples
- "She tried to foster a sense of teamwork within the group."
- "The teacher's role is to foster a love of learning in her students."
- "The community came together to foster a spirit of cooperation after the crisis."
- "The organization aims to foster innovation in the tech industry."
- "His ideas helped foster a new approach to solving the problem."
To take care of a child or animal, especially one that is not your biological offspring, in a temporary capacity.
Examples
- "They decided to foster a child after their own children had grown up."
- "The couple fostered several animals before adopting one permanently."
- "He was fostered by a loving family when his parents were unable to care for him."
- "Many children in foster care have faced challenging circumstances."
- "The foster parents were incredibly supportive of their new child's needs."
Relating to or involving fostering, especially in the context of child or animal care.
Examples
- "She works in a foster home for children."
- "They adopted a foster child last year."
- "The foster care system needs more support and resources."
- "He grew up in a foster family after his parents' divorce."
- "There are many foster children waiting for a permanent home."
Cultural Context
The word 'foster' has deep ties to social welfare systems around the world, especially related to child and animal care. It evokes a sense of compassion and temporary responsibility, highlighting the importance of providing care in challenging circumstances. The practice of fostering, whether in the family or community, is viewed positively in many cultures for its role in helping vulnerable individuals.
A New Beginning
Story
A New Beginning
Maria had always known that she wanted to help children, and when she and her husband, Sam, felt their nest empty after their own children moved out, they decided to foster a child. At first, it seemed daunting—taking in a child who was not their own, with all the emotional complexities that might entail. But as they met little Emily, a shy 7-year-old with wide brown eyes, they knew they were doing the right thing. Emily had been through a lot, and Maria and Sam’s home was a safe place where she could finally find some stability. Maria fostered an environment of kindness and patience, knowing that Emily’s past could not be erased, but with time and care, her future could be brighter. Sam was the first to foster a bond with Emily, taking her to the park and sharing his love for gardening. It wasn’t long before Maria found herself fostering not just Emily’s growth, but her own—she learned new ways to connect with children who had faced challenges. The process wasn’t without its struggles. There were times when Emily would pull away, unsure of how to trust people again. But through the love and dedication of her foster parents, she began to open up. One night, after a difficult day, Maria sat beside Emily on the couch. 'You’re doing so well,' Maria said, 'Fostering a sense of safety and peace takes time, and I’m proud of how far you’ve come.' Emily smiled, the first real smile Maria had seen in weeks. They didn’t know if they would adopt Emily eventually, but they knew that for now, they were fostering something important: a new beginning for a child who needed love. The journey was far from over, but Maria and Sam were ready for whatever came next.
Related Words
