Word forms: plural, 3rd person singular presenttense firms, present participle firming, past tense, past participle firmed, comparative firmer, superlative firmest
1. countable noun
A firm is an organization which sells or produces something or which provides a servicewhich people pay for.
The firm's employees were expecting large bonuses.
...a firm of heating engineers. [+ of]
Synonyms: company, business, concern, association More Synonyms of firm
2. adjective
If something is firm, it does not change much in shape when it is pressed but is not completely hard.
Fruit should be firm and in excellent condition.
Choose a soft, medium or firm mattress to suit their individual needs.
Synonyms: hard, solid, compact, dense More Synonyms of firm
firmnessuncountable noun
Vegetables should retain some firmness and should not be soggy and waterlogged.
Synonyms: hardness, resistance, density, rigidity More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: steadiness, tension, stability, tightness More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: strength, tightness, steadiness More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: resolve, resolution, constancy, inflexibility More Synonyms of firm
3. adjective
If something is firm, it does not shake or move when you put weight or pressure on it, because it is strongly made or securelyfastened.
If you have to climb up, use a firm platform or a sturdy ladder.
Synonyms: secure, strong, fixed, secured More Synonyms of firm
firmlyadverb [ADVERB -ed, ADVERB after verb]
The front door is locked and all the windows are firmly shut.
Synonyms: immovably, securely, steadily, like a rock More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: securely, safely, tightly More Synonyms of firm
4. adjective
If someone's grip is firm or if they perform a physical action in a firm way, they do it with quite a lot of force or pressure but also in a controlled way.
The quick handshake was firm and cool.
He managed to grasp the metal, get a firm grip of it and heave his body upwards.
Synonyms: strong, close, tight, steady More Synonyms of firm
firmlyadverb [ADVERB after verb]
She held me firmly by the elbow and led me to my aisle seat.
Synonyms: immovably, securely, steadily, like a rock More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: steadily, securely, tightly, unflinchingly More Synonyms of firm
firmnessuncountable noun
Tim stretched out a hand in apology and was comforted by the firmness with whichMarc gripped it.
Synonyms: hardness, resistance, density, rigidity More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: steadiness, tension, stability, tightness More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: strength, tightness, steadiness More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: resolve, resolution, constancy, inflexibility More Synonyms of firm
5. adjective
If you describe someone as firm, you mean they behave in a way that shows that they are not going to change their mind, or that they are the person who is in control.
She had to be firm with him. 'I don't want to see you again.' [+ with]
Perhaps they need the guiding hand of a firm father figure.
Synonyms: strict, unwavering, unswerving, unshakeable More Synonyms of firm
firmlyadverb [ADVERB with verb]
'A good night's sleep is what you want,' he said firmly.
Synonyms: immovably, securely, steadily, like a rock More Synonyms of firm
firmnessuncountable noun
...a manner that combines friendliness with compassion and firmness.
Synonyms: hardness, resistance, density, rigidity More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: steadiness, tension, stability, tightness More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: strength, tightness, steadiness More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: resolve, resolution, constancy, inflexibility More Synonyms of firm
6. adjective [usually ADJECTIVE noun]
A firm decision or opinion is definite and unlikely to change.
He made a firm decision to leave Fort Multry by boat.
It is my firm belief that partnership between police and the public is absolutelynecessary.
firmlyadverb [ADVERB -ed, ADVERB after verb]
Political values and opinions are firmly held, and can be slow to change.
He is firmly convinced that it is vital to do this.
Synonyms: immovably, securely, steadily, like a rock More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: resolutely, strictly, staunchly, steadfastly More Synonyms of firm
firmnessuncountable noun
What's impressed me has been his considerable firmness of purpose.
Synonyms: hardness, resistance, density, rigidity More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: steadiness, tension, stability, tightness More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: strength, tightness, steadiness More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: resolve, resolution, constancy, inflexibility More Synonyms of firm
7. adjective [ADJECTIVE noun]
Firm evidence or information is based on facts and so is likely to be true.
This man may have killed others but unfortunately we have no firm evidence.
There's unlikely to be firm news about the convoy's progress for some time.
8. adjective [usually ADJECTIVE noun]
You use firm to describe control or a basis or position when it is strong and unlikely to be ended or removed.
A goalkeeping mistake put Dagenham in firm control of the first half.
The company, a household name in the States, has a firm foothold in the British market.
Synonyms: determined, true, settled, fixed More Synonyms of firm
firmlyadverb [ADVERB -ed, ADVERB after verb]
This tradition is also firmly rooted in the past.
It placed reggae music firmly in the mainstream of world culture.
Synonyms: immovably, securely, steadily, like a rock More Synonyms of firm
9. graded adjective [ADJECTIVE noun]
If people are firm friends, they have been close friends for a long time and their friendship is likely to continue.
The couple met about two years ago and soon became firm friends.
Synonyms: close, good, devoted, inseparable More Synonyms of firm
10. adjective
If a price, value, or currency is firm, it is not decreasing in value or amount.
Cotton prices remain firm and demand is strong.
The shares held firm at 280p.
Firm prices and stability will allow both producers and consumers to plan confidently.
firmnessuncountable noun
...the firmness of the dollar against other currencies. [+ of]
Synonyms: hardness, resistance, density, rigidity More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: steadiness, tension, stability, tightness More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: strength, tightness, steadiness More Synonyms of firm
Synonyms: resolve, resolution, constancy, inflexibility More Synonyms of firm
11. verb
If you firm soil around a plant, you press it so that it is fairly solid rather than loose.
Firm more soil over the roots and water thoroughly. [VERB noun preposition/adverb]
12.
See to stand firm
Phrasal verbs:
See firm up
More Synonyms of firm
firm in British English1
(fɜːm)
adjective
1.
not soft or yielding to a touch or pressure; rigid; solid
2.
securely in position; stable or stationary
3.
definitely established; decided; settled
4.
enduring or steady; constant
5.
having determination or strength; resolute
6.
(of prices, markets, etc) tending to rise
adverb
7.
in a secure, stable, or unyielding manner
he stood firm over his obligation to pay
verb
8. (sometimes foll by up)
to make or become firm
9. (intransitive) Australian horse racing
(of a horse) to shorten in odds
Derived forms
firmly (ˈfirmly)
adverb
firmness (ˈfirmness)
noun
Word origin
C14: from Latin firmus
firm in British English2
(fɜːm)
noun
1.
a business partnership
2.
any commercial enterprise
3.
a team of doctors and their assistants
4. British slang
a.
a gang of criminals
b.
a gang of football hooligans
Word origin
C16 (in the sense: signature): from Spanish firma signature, title of a partnership or business concern, from firmar to sign, from Latin firmāre to confirm, from firmus firm
firm in American English1
(fɜrm)
adjective
1.
not yielding easily under pressure; solid; hard
2.
not moved or shaken easily; fixed; stable
3.
continued steadily; remaining the same
a firm friendship
4.
unchanging; resolute; constant
a firm faith
5.
showing determination, strength, etc.
a firm command
6.
legally or formally concluded; definite; final
a firm contract, a firm order
7. Business
not rising or falling very much; steady
said of prices, etc.
verb transitive, verb intransitive
8.
to make or become firm, or solid, steady, stable, definite, etc.
often with up
Idioms:
stand firm
SYNONYMY NOTE: firm1, in referring to material consistency, suggests a compactness that does not yieldeasily to, or is very resilient under, pressure [firm flesh]; hard is applied to that which is so firm that it is not easily penetrated, cut, or crushed[hard as rock]; solid suggests a dense consistency throughout a mass or substance that is firm or hardand often connotes heaviness or substantiality [solid brick]; stiff implies resistance to bending or stretching [a stiff collar]
Derived forms
firmly (ˈfirmly)
adverb
firmness (ˈfirmness)
noun
Word origin
ME ferm < OFr < L firmus < IE base *dher-, to hold, support > Sans dhárma, precept, law, Gr thronos, armchair
firm in American English2
(fɜrm)
noun
1.
a business company or partnership of two or more persons
see also corporation
2. Popularly
any business company, whether or not unincorporated
Word origin
It firma, signature, hence title of a business < L firmare, to strengthen < firmus: see firm1
Examples of 'firm' in a sentence
firm
They also could use the knowledge they have about firms and their competitors.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
Firm in your belief that the sheep can be herded somewhere else instead.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
The firm shut for business last month after it was stopped from claiming legal aid cash.
The Sun (2016)
Your firm will also need to consider the specific needs of vulnerable consumers.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
Uncertainty also makes firms more likely to employ temporary workers rather than take on new permanent staff.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
Do you have a service for firms that do not want to invest in all that new equipment?
Computing (2010)
Increasingly, the boundaries of competitiveness are controlled by firms that run international production networks.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
But ask people whether they trust the independence of the big firms and the answer you will get tells you all you need to know.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
This recipe was a firm favourite with me and my brothers when we were growing up, and now I often cook it for myself.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
This can include family members and other firms you control.
Times, Sunday Times (2006)
Top of his list of targets were fat cat energy firms.
The Sun (2013)
The notion of job security at big law firms is unlikely to endure.
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
The current study makes use of employment statistics for establishments rather than firms or enterprises.
Forstner, Helmut, Ballance, Robert Competing in a Global Economy (1990)
The firms pay a joining fee and a percentage of any sales they make.
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
The firm will also pay exit fees from previous suppliers.
The Sun (2016)
You have a friendly but firm way of talking so people know you mean what you say.
The Sun (2009)
The batter should have a fairly firm consistency.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
We have a firm belief we can get out of this.
The Sun (2013)
The survey found that profits and business volumes at big financial services firms continue to plummet.
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
American financial firm to run short of cash.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
The best information is often supplied by car hire firms when you collect your vehicle.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
Two special awards recognise the challenges faced by large firms seeking to be green.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
Will they keep their promises and stand firm when the going gets tough?
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
Such a firm grasp on the essential facts.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
Your muscles become firmer and more toned.
Christianity Today (2000)
The main reason this deal was done was the player wanted to play for us and held firm.
The Sun (2014)
Try to work for a global firm or company and work abroad as it is a great experience.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
After all, the staff own a quarter of the specialist financial services firm.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
Much of the firm's business was drawn from the local furniture industry.
Tom Cannon Basic Marketing. Principles and Practice (1986)
They must be firm favourites now to win the Championship.
Moynihan, John Kevin Keegan - Black and White (1993)
The research also includes islanders who have joined the boards of British firms in the past year.
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
They are about getting into arguments in languages you can't speak with car rental firms.
Times, Sunday Times (2015)
It is also wider than it is tall, which gives it a classic Japanese feel and makes it a firm favourite.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
In other languages
firm
British English: firm /fɜːm/ ADJECTIVE
Something that is firm is fairly hard and does not change much in shape when it is pressed.
Choose a soft, medium or firm mattress.
American English: firm
Arabic: راسِخ
Brazilian Portuguese: firme
Chinese: 结实的
Croatian: čvrst
Czech: pevný
Danish: fast
Dutch: stevig krachtig
European Spanish: duro sólido
Finnish: kiinteä rakenne
French: ferme dur
German: fest
Greek: σφιχτός
Italian: sodo
Japanese: 堅い
Korean: 단단한
Norwegian: fast
Polish: mocny
European Portuguese: firme
Romanian: ferm
Russian: твердый
Latin American Spanish: firme
Swedish: fast kompakt
Thai: แข็ง
Turkish: sıkı
Ukrainian: твердий
Vietnamese: chắc chắn
British English: firm /fɜːm/ NOUN
A firm is a business selling or producing something.
...a firm of heating engineers.
American English: firm
Arabic: شَرِكَة
Brazilian Portuguese: firma
Chinese: 公司
Croatian: tvrtka
Czech: firma
Danish: firma
Dutch: firma
European Spanish: empresa
Finnish: yritys firma
French: firme
German: Firma
Greek: εταιρεία
Italian: ditta
Japanese: 会社
Korean: 회사
Norwegian: firma
Polish: firma
European Portuguese: firma
Romanian: firmă
Russian: фирма
Latin American Spanish: empresa
Swedish: firma
Thai: บริษัท
Turkish: firma
Ukrainian: фірма
Vietnamese: hãng
All related terms of 'firm'
firm up
If you firm up something or if it firms up , it becomes firmer and more solid .
family firm
→ another name for family business
firm belief
If it is your belief that something is the case, it is your strong opinion that it is the case.
firm stance
Your stance on a particular matter is your attitude to it.
stand firm
to be or remain steadfast in conviction despite attack, efforts to persuade , etc.
courier firm
a firm that provides special delivery services
firm evidence
Evidence is anything that you see, experience, read , or are told that causes you to believe that something is true or has really happened .
haulage firm
a firm that transports goods by lorry
security firm
a firm which provides guards for buildings, and other security services and personnel
bookmaking firm
an organization that accepts bets from gamblers and pays out winnings
firm commitment
If you make a commitment to do something, you promise that you will do it.
firm foundation
The foundation of something such as a belief or way of life is the things on which it is based.
securities firm
a firm that deals in securities
headhunting firm
a recruiting agency
on firm ground
in a safe situation
to stand firm
If someone stands firm , they refuse to change their mind about something.
mail order firm
a company that sells goods by mail order
plant-hire firm
a company that hires out mobile mechanical equipment for construction , road-making, etc
start-up company
a company which has recently been set up
private-equity company
an organization that uses private equity to gain control of and manage companies
Chinese translation of 'firm'
firm
(fəːm)
adj
[mattress, ground]硬实(實)的 (yìngshi de)
[person]坚(堅)定的 (jiāndìng de)
[grasp, hold, grip] (lit) 稳(穩)定而有力的 (wěndìng ér yǒulì de)
⇒ I took a firm hold on the rope.我牢牢地抓着绳子。 (Wǒ láoláo de zhuāzhe shéngzi.) (fig), 毫不动摇的 (háo bù dòngyáo de)
⇒ He has a firm grasp of the principles.他毫不动摇地坚持原则。 (Tā háo bù dòngyáo de jiānchí yuánzé.)
[views, leadership]强(強)有力的 (qiángyǒulì de)
[offer]确(確)定的 (quèdìng de)
[decision, opinion]坚(堅)决(決)的 (jiānjué de)
⇒ He made a firm decision to leave.他作出坚决的决定要离开。 (Tā zuòchū jiānjué de juédìng yào líkāi.)