surefire

adjective

sure·​fire ˈshu̇r-ˈfī(-ə)r How to pronounce surefire (audio)
ˈshər-
Synonyms of surefirenext
: certain to get successful or expected results
a surefire recipe

Examples of surefire in a Sentence

The movie is a surefire hit with teenagers. There is no surefire way to predict the outcome.
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.
While tight end and safety aren’t considered premium positions, both spots could use a surefire upgrade. Mike Kaye march 30, Charlotte Observer, 30 Mar. 2026 According to Brooklyn Nets coach Jordi Fernandez, there isn’t a surefire way to prepare his players. Benjamin Royer, Oc Register, 28 Mar. 2026 Flamingo Estate’s gift set is a surefire way to make any gourmand feel loved. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 23 Mar. 2026 Most of the quality options went quickly in free agency, and that was without much of a list of surefire, major-impact players. Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 21 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for surefire

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of surefire was in 1846

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Cite this Entry

“Surefire.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/surefire. Accessed 12 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

surefire

adjective
sure·​fire ˌshu̇r-ˌfī(ə)r How to pronounce surefire (audio)
: certain to get results
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