n. & v.
--n.
1. a an abnormally high body temperature, often with delirium etc. b a disease characterized by this (scarlet fever; typhoid fever).
2 nervous excitement; agitation.
--v.tr. (esp. as fevered adj.) affect with fever or excitement.
Phrases and idioms:
fever pitch a state of extreme excitement.
Etymology: OE fefor & AF fevre, OF fievre f. L febris