First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1firm
adjective \ˈfərm\
: fairly hard or solid : not soft
: set, placed, or attached in a way that is not easily moved
: not weak or uncertain
Full 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
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Origin of FIRM
Middle English ferm, from Anglo-French, from Latin firmus; akin to Greek thronos chair, throne
Related to FIRM
2firm
adverb
3firm
verb
: to put (something, such as a plan) into a final form
: to make (something) harder or more solid : to make (something) less loose
: to make (something) stronger
Full 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>
See firm defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of FIRM
14th century
4firm
noun
: a business organization
Full 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
See firm defined for English-language learners
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
Other Business Terms
FIRM Defined for Kids
1firm
adjective \ˈfərm\
firm·erfirm·est
Definition of FIRM for Kids
1
: having a solid compact texture <firm ground>
3
: not likely to be changed <a firm price>
4
: not easily moved or shaken : faithful <a firm believer> <firm friends>
5
: showing certainty or determination <firm control>
— firm·ly adverb <firmly attached>
— firm·ness noun
2firm
verb
firmedfirm·ing
Definition of FIRM for Kids
1
: to make or become hard or solid <Gently firm the soil.> <The gelatin will firm in an hour.>
2
: to make more secure or strong <She firmed her grip on the racquet.>
3
: to put into final form <We need to firm our plans.>
3firm
noun
Definition of FIRM for Kids
: business 2 <an insurance firm>
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