Find Synonyms

foster Synonyms

Another word for foster

Choosing another word for foster depends on context, so the 14 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To encourage or promote the development of something (typically something good or beneficial).

Usage Example

"The teacher tried to encourage a sense of curiosity and collaboration among her students."

Strongest
encourage
promote
nurture
cultivate
Strong
further
stimulate
advance
support

• verb (Context 2)

To bring up a child that is not one's own by birth, usually for a temporary period through an official agency.

Usage Example

"The couple decided to rear children before considering permanent adoption."

Strong
rear
raise
bring up
nurture
care for

• adjective (Context 3)

Sharing, providing, or receiving parental care and family upbringing without being related by blood or legal adoption.

Usage Example

"The children quickly bonded with their compassionate surrogate parents."

Strong
surrogate
adoptive

Opposites of foster

The opposite of foster shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

biological
discourage
hinder
abandon
stifle
suppress
neglect
thwart
See all opposites of foster

• Nearby Words

fossil
fossilization
fossilize
foster
foul
fouling
foully

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Foster. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/foster
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