fir

noun

ˈfər 

1

: any of a genus (Abies) of north temperate evergreen trees of the pine family that have flattish leaves, circular leaf scars, and erect female cones and are valued for their wood

also : any of various conifers (such as the Douglas fir) of other genera

2

: the wood of a fir

Examples of fir in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

If pine isn’t your favorite scent, use fir or cedarwood instead. —Cody Godwin, USA TODAY, 11 Dec. 2024

The paraffin wax-blend candle burns for 18 hours and fills your home with a fresh, wintry fragrance containing notes of fir needles, cedar, pinesap, and holly. —Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Dec. 2024

But in December 1961, Kennedy decorated their fir with ornaments that played homage to Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. —Elise Taylor, Vogue, 2 Dec. 2024

North Valley Spruce Tree with Clear Lights A more sustainable option than a traditional fir is an artificial tree. —Nicol Natale, People.com, 2 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English fyrh; akin to Old High German forha fir, Latin quercus oak

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing fir

• balsam fir
• Douglas fir
• Fraser fir
• grand fir
• silver fir
• subalpine fir
• white fir

Kids Definition

fir

noun

ˈfər 

1

: any of various usually large evergreen trees related to the pines some of which yield useful lumber or resins

2

: the wood of a fir

Medical Definition

fir

noun

ˈfər 

: any tree of the genus Abies see balsam fir