fixture

noun fix·ture \ ˈfiks-chər \

Updated on: 14 Apr 2018

Definition of fixture

1 : the act or process of fixing : the state of being fixed

2 a : something that is fixed or attached (as to a building) as a permanent appendage or as a structural part

a plumbing fixture

b : a device for supporting work during machining

c : an item of movable property so incorporated into real property that it may be regarded as legally a part of it

3 : a familiar or invariably present element or feature in some particular setting; especially : a person long associated with a place or activity

4 : a settled date or time especially for a sporting or festive event; also : such an event especially as a regularly scheduled affair

See fixture defined for English-language learners

See fixture defined for kids

Examples of fixture in a Sentence

He's been a fixture in the parade for many years.
She hopes the new educational program will become a permanent fixture at the zoo.

Recent Examples of fixture from the Web

The feeling around Madrid is that Zidane is happy with Vallejo's fitness levels and plans for the centre-back line-up next to Raphael Varane in the fixture.

— SI.com, "Real Madrid Centre-Back Winning Fitness Race for UCL Second Leg Tie Against Juventus," 10 Apr. 2018
The lighting consists of a multitude of fixtures and chandeliers, each complementing one another with a variety of glows and reflecting throughout the room thanks to glass and mirrors.

— john petkovic, cleveland.com, "Cleveland International Film Festival 2018: bars, restaurants, parties (photos)," 5 Apr. 2018
Toto says the fire was electrical and started in a light fixture; at the time, it was investigated as arson.

— michael klein, Philly.com, "Branzino, the Italian BYOB in Rittenhouse, reopening after fire," 30 Mar. 2018
The Red Bulls’ fixture list is a bit crowded heading into Saturday’s match.

— jordan culver, Pro Soccer USA, "Orlando City center back Lamine Sané set for home debut against New York Red Bulls," 29 Mar. 2018
Among the energy-efficiency measures are special insulation in the building's roof and walls, energy efficient windows, framing and doors, a reduced number of light fixtures and a 93 percent efficient natural gas boiler.

— michelle mullins, Naperville Sun, "Naperville News Digest," 23 Mar. 2018
Chelsea take on Newcastle in an all-Premier League fixture at Stamford Bridge, licking their wounds after defeat to Arsenal in the League Cup semi-final on Wednesday.

— john weaver/afp, chicagotribune.com, "Sanchez included in Man United FA Cup squad," 25 Jan. 2018
On demo day, Chip removed all the old booths, the dated light fixtures, and interior beams that made the restaurant feel enclosed.

— madison roberts, PEOPLE.com, "Chip and Joanna Gaines Unveil Their New Restaurant On Fixer Upper—See The Stunning Transformation," 28 Mar. 2018
The main interior design concepts come from Browne himself, who favors terrazzo, fluorescent light fixtures, and horizontal slat blinds.

— brad dunning, GQ, "These Are the 8 Architectural Wonders Of the Fashion World," 28 Mar. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'fixture.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of fixture

alteration of earlier fixure (probably after mixture), going back to Middle English, "point of attachment," borrowed from Late Latin fīxūra "action of fixing, place where a nail is fixed," from Latin fīxus, past participle of fīgere "to drive in, insert, fasten" + -ūra -ure — more at ¹fix

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1598

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fixture Synonyms

Synonyms

institution;

Related Words

first lady, grand old man;

icon (also ikon), symbol;

dean, elder statesman;

FIXTURE Defined for English Language Learners

fixture

noun

Definition of fixture for English Language Learners

: something (such as a light, toilet, sink, etc.) that is attached to a house or building and that is not removed when the house or building is sold
: a person or thing that has been part of something or involved in something for a long time
sports : a game played at a particular time and place