English vocabulary · C1
Fodder
/ˈfɑːdər/ · n.
Fodder is food for livestock. Figuratively, it is material used to fuel gossip, debate, or entertainment.
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Example sentences
- The barn stored fodder for winter.
- The scandal gave comedians fresh fodder.
Word origin and roots
from Old English
- fodor — food (from Old English)
Synonyms and nuances
- FEED — give animals food (Nourish Animals)
- MATERIAL — something used to make or do (Serve A Purpose)
- FUEL — make an activity continue (Keep It Going)
Similar words
- feed
- forage
- material
- fuel
- ammunition
Lesson notes
Fodder is food for livestock. Figuratively, it is material used to fuel gossip, debate, or entertainment.
Related: feed, material, fuel. Use fodder for raw material that keeps an activity going.
The barn stored fodder for winter. The scandal gave comedians fresh fodder.
From Old English. Fodor means food. Old English fodor became English fodder.