bonfire

noun

bon·​fire ˈbän-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce bonfire (audio)
: a large fire built in the open air

Examples of bonfire in a Sentence

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.
The holiday celebrates the beginning of summer and is celebrated with hilltop bonfires and dancing. Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 This product is flammable, so make sure not to spray it near a grill or bonfire, Vanchinathan said. Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 20 June 2025 Earlier peoples might have built a circle of stones or leapt over a bonfire. Corey Buhay, Outside Online, 19 June 2025 Best Time to Visit According to Wicker, early fall is the best time to visit; the weather is mild—expect temperatures between the mid-60s and low 80s—the beaches are less crowded, and there are still plenty of opportunities to fish, kiteboard, and gather around a beach bonfire. Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 16 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for bonfire

Word History

Etymology

Middle English bonefire a fire of bones, from bon bone + fire

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bonfire was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bonfire.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bonfire. Accessed 16 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

bonfire

noun
bon·​fire ˈbän-ˌfī(ə)r How to pronounce bonfire (audio)
: a large outdoor fire

More from Merriam-Webster on bonfire

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