firm

¹firm

adjective \ˈfərm\

Definition of FIRM

1

a : securely or solidly fixed in place

b : not weak or uncertain : vigorous

c : having a solid or compact structure that resists stress or pressure

2

a (1) : not subject to change or revision (2) : not subject to price weakness : steady

b : not easily moved or disturbed : steadfast

c : well-founded

3

: indicating firmness or resolution <a firm mouth>

— firm·ly adverb

— firm·ness noun

Examples of FIRM

1. She has a firm grasp of the basic principles.
2. They insist on maintaining firm control over the project.
3. He spoke to her in a soft but firm voice.
4. The time has come for us to take a firm stand.
5. The children need gentle but firm handling.

Origin of FIRM

Middle English ferm, from Anglo-French, from Latin firmus; akin to Greek thronos chair, throne

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to FIRM

Synonyms

forceful, hearty, iron, lusty, robust, solid, stout, strong, sturdy, vigorous

Antonyms

uncertain, weak

Related Words

hard, ironclad, mighty, powerful, tough, unyielding; animated, brisk, energetic, frisky, jaunty, jazzy, lively, peppy, perky, spirited, sprightful, sprightly, springy, vital, vivacious, zippy; assured, certain, confident, sanguine, secure, sure

Near Antonyms

feeble, fragile, frail; limp, listless, spiritless; diffident, insecure, self-doubting; characterless, effete, frail, spineless, weakened, weak-kneed, wimpy, wishy-washy

Rhymes with FIRM

berm, germ, herm, perm, sperm, squirm, term, therm, worm

²firm

adverb

Definition of FIRM

: in a firm manner : steadfastly, fixedly

First Known Use of FIRM

14th century

³firm

verb

Definition of FIRM

transitive verb

1

a : to make secure or fast : tighten <firming her grip on the racquet> —often used with up

b : to make solid or compact <firm the soil>

2

: to put into final form : settle <firm a contract> <firm up plans>

3

: to give additional support to : strengthen —usually used with up

intransitive verb

1

: to become firm : harden —often used with up

2

: to recover from a decline : improve <the market is firming>

First Known Use of FIRM

14th century

⁴firm

noun

Definition of FIRM

1

: the name or title under which a company transacts business

2

: a partnership of two or more persons that is not recognized as a legal person distinct from the members composing it

3

: a business unit or enterprise

Examples of FIRM

1. <merged with another firm to become a major player in the brokerage business>

Origin of FIRM

German Firma, from Italian, signature, ultimately from Latin firmare to make firm, confirm, from firmus

First Known Use: 1744

Related to FIRM

Synonyms

business, company, concern, establishment, enterprise, house, interest, outfit

Related Words

conglomerate, corporation, multinational; association, cartel, chain, combine, syndicate, trust; agency, dealer, outlet; microenterprise

Other Business Terms

amortize, caveat emptor, clearinghouse, divest, due diligence, emolument, green-collar, marque, overhead, perquisite