1
: any of a genus (Abies) of north temperate evergreen trees of the pine family that have flattish leaves, circular leaf scars, and erect female cones and are valued for their wood
also : any of various conifers (such as the Douglas fir) of other genera
2
: the wood of a fir

Examples of fir in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There is an old fir tree bowing to the corner of the shed. Literary Hub, 22 July 2025 All fir trees are useful to birds, and some are available in dwarf form for smaller gardens. Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 July 2025 It’s made with fir wood, which can stand up to the elements (and watering) without warping, and there are drainage holes already built in. Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 2 July 2025 It’s made with solid fir wood that can withstand all types of weather and has a waterproof roof. Clint Davis, People.com, 10 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for fir

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English fyrh; akin to Old High German forha fir, Latin quercus oak

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fir was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fir.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fir. Accessed 28 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

fir

noun
1
: any of various usually large evergreen trees related to the pines some of which yield useful lumber or resins
2
: the wood of a fir

Medical Definition

fir

noun
: any tree of the genus Abies see balsam fir

More from Merriam-Webster on fir

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