Meaning of Word
Firm: Strong, stable, and resolute; not easily moved, changed, or weakened.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Firm (adjective): Solid and steady; not soft, yielding, or weak.
- Firm (adjective): Resolute and unwavering in decisions, beliefs, or actions.
- Firm (noun): A business or company, especially one involved in professional services.
- Firm (verb): To make something more solid or stable.
History and Origin
The word firm originates from the Latin word firmus, meaning “strong, steadfast, or stable.” It entered the English language in the late Middle English period, initially describing physical solidity before expanding to include figurative meanings such as decisiveness or stability. The noun usage, referring to a business, comes from the Italian word firma, meaning “signature,” as business agreements were often sealed with signatures.
Detailed Explanation
Firm can be used in different contexts:
- As an adjective, it describes something physically solid (like firm ground), emotionally or mentally resolute (like a firm decision), or fixed (like a firm rule).
- As a noun, it refers to an organized business, typically providing services or goods.
- As a verb, it means to strengthen or stabilize something, such as firming up muscles or plans.
The term often implies a balance of strength and stability, whether physically, emotionally, or organizationally.
Example Sentences
- The mattress is firm and offers excellent back support.
- He made a firm decision to quit his job and start a new venture.
- The law firm specializes in corporate cases.
- She held the child’s hand firmly while crossing the road.
- The board expressed firm support for the new policy.
- The ground was firm enough to walk on after the rain stopped.
- The CEO announced that the firm would expand into international markets.
- They need to firm up the details before signing the contract.
- Her voice was calm but firm, showing her authority in the situation.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Solid: Strong and stable in form or structure.
- Steadfast: Unwavering in purpose or belief.
- Stable: Securely fixed; unlikely to change or fall.
- Resolute: Determined and unwavering in action or thought.
- Strong: Possessing great physical or emotional strength.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Rigid: Stiff and inflexible, often physically or in attitude.
- Unyielding: Not giving way under pressure; resolute.
- Sturdy: Robust and durable in construction or character.
- Fixed: Set or securely in place; not changing.
- Corporate: Related to a business or organization, especially in reference to a firm.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Tough: Durable and able to endure challenges.
- Hard: Firm to the touch, resistant to pressure.
- Resilient: Able to recover strength or stability after a disturbance.
- Unshakeable: Firm and unwavering in belief or position.
- Compact: Dense and firmly packed together.
Antonyms
- Soft: Not firm or solid to the touch; yielding easily.
- Weak: Lacking strength or stability.
- Unstable: Not steady or secure; likely to change.
- Flexible: Easily bent or adaptable to change.
- Yielding: Giving way under pressure or influence.
