Firm
/fɜːrm/
Definitions
5 meaningsSolid, strong, and stable; not likely to change or move.
/fɜːrm/
Solid, not easily moved or shaken
The ground was firm under her feet, making it easy to walk.
💡 Simply: Imagine a table that doesn't wobble when you put your plate on it. That's firm! It's strong and steady, like a really good hug.
👶 For kids: If something is firm, it's strong and won't move easily. Like a hard rock!
More Examples
He gave a firm handshake to show his confidence.
The cake had a firm texture after baking.
How It's Used
"The foundation of the building needs to be firm."
"The ground was firm under his feet."
Showing strength of character, determination, or resolve; unwavering.
/fɜːrm/
Strong in purpose, resolve, or belief
She remained firm in her decision to quit the job.
💡 Simply: If you're firm, it means you know what you want and you won't be swayed. It's like when you're sure you want ice cream instead of broccoli!
👶 For kids: Being firm means you are strong in what you think and won't change your mind easily.
More Examples
The company took a firm stand against pollution.
He gave a firm 'no' to their proposal.
How It's Used
"The politician maintained a firm stance on the issue."
"She had a firm belief in her abilities."
Not subject to change or alteration; fixed or definite.
/fɜːrm/
Fixed, definite, not subject to change
The contract had a firm closing date.
💡 Simply: If something is firm, it's already decided and won't change. Like a promise that you will definitely get to eat pizza tonight.
👶 For kids: If something is firm, it's already decided and won't change, like your bedtime.
More Examples
The airline offered a firm price for the ticket.
The appointment time is firm, so please be on time.
How It's Used
"The price is firm and non-negotiable."
"We have a firm date for the meeting."
A business concern; a partnership of two or more persons.
/fɜːrm/
A business or company
He founded a successful consulting firm.
💡 Simply: A firm is like a team of people who work together to make or sell things, or offer services, like a pizza place or a doctor's office.
👶 For kids: A firm is a group of people working together, like a company or a team.
More Examples
The firm specializes in architectural design.
She was promoted to partner at the firm.
How It's Used
"She works for a law firm."
"The investment firm made a significant profit."
To make or become firm; to strengthen or stabilize.
/fɜːrm/
To make or become firm.
The company firmed up its marketing strategy.
💡 Simply: To firm something means to make it more solid, secure, or certain. Like when you firm up your plans for a party.
👶 For kids: If you firm something, you make it stronger or more solid, like squeezing clay to make it firm.
More Examples
She tried to firm her grip on the rope.
The doctor firmed up the diagnosis.
How It's Used
"The manager firmed up the budget."
"He firmed his commitment to the project."
Synonyms
Determined
Definite
Established
Business
Company
Corporation
Enterprise
Idioms & expressions
firm up
To make something more definite or certain; to strengthen or solidify.
"They need to firm up the details before announcing the project."
firm belief
A strong and unwavering belief.
"She has a firm belief in the power of education."
firm handshake
A strong and confident handshake, indicating sincerity and confidence.
"He greeted us with a firm handshake."
From Middle English, from Old French *ferme* ('strong, steadfast'), from Latin *firmus* ('strong, stable, steadfast').
The word 'firm' has been used since the 14th century. Early usages focused on its meanings related to stability, strength, and steadiness, both physical and in character.
Memory tip
Think of a firm handshake – confident and steady.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: firmus