The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Fomentation \Fo`men*ta"tion\, n. [?. fomentatio: cf. F.
   fomentation.]
   1. (Med.)
      (a) The act of fomenting; the application of warm, soft,
          medicinal substances, as for the purpose of easing
          pain, by relaxing the skin, or of discussing tumors.
      (b) The lotion applied to a diseased part.
          [1913 Webster]

   2. Excitation; instigation; encouragement.
      [1913 Webster]

            Dishonest fomentation of your pride.  --Young.
      [1913 Webster]

WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):

fomentation
    n 1: a substance used as a warm moist medicinal compress or
         poultice
    2: application of warm wet coverings to a part of the body to
       relieve pain and inflammation
    3: deliberate and intentional triggering (of trouble or discord)
       [syn: fomentation, instigation]