firm1
adj.
- having an unyielding surface or structure.
- solidly in place and stable.
- having steady power or strength:
a firm grip.
▸unlikely to change; enduring.
- showing strength of character; resolute.
- (of a currency, shares, etc.) having a steady value or price which is more likely to rise than fall.
v.
- make stable or unyielding.
-
(often firm something up)
make (an agreement or plan) explicit and definite.
- (of a price) rise to reach a level considered secure.
adv.
in a resolute and determined manner.
Phrase
- be on firm ground
be sure of one's facts or secure in one's position. - a firm hand
strict discipline or control.
Derivative
Etymology
ME: from OFr. ferme, from L. firmus.
firm2
n.
- a company or business partnership.
- a group of hospital doctors working as a team.
Etymology
C16 (orig. denoting a signature, later the name under which a firm's business was transacted): from Sp. and Ital. firma, based on L. firmare ‘fix, settle’ (in late L. ‘confirm by signature’), from firmus ‘firm’; cf. farm.