fever
n. C / Un. a body temperature that is higher than normal, usually because you are sick. It is your body's way of fighting off an infection.
n. an elevation of body temperature above the normal circadian range as a result of an increase in the body's biological set point. Often used metaphorically to describe a state of intense nervous excitement or agitation.
He stayed home from school because he had a high fever.
The doctor advised drinking plenty of fluids and resting until the fever finally broke.
As the election approached, a fever of anticipation gripped the city, with citizens debating the potential outcomes in every public square.
From Middle English fever, fevere, from Old English fefer, fefor (“fever”) and Old French fievre (“fever”), from Latin febris (“a fever”), from Proto-Indo-European *dʰegʷʰ- (“to burn”). Replaced native Old English hriþ (“fever”). Compare also Saterland Frisian Fiewer, German Fieber, Danish feber, Swedish feber.
Countable when referring to a specific instance of illness; uncountable when discussing the general medical condition or metaphorical excitement.
I have a strong feverI have a high feverIn English, temperature is described as 'high' or 'low' rather than 'strong'.