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

An elegant fir pre-strung with clear lights will never go out of style. —Clint Davis, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Oct. 2024

Taiyo Watanabe The architect crafted another key transitional element with the Seattle Public Library–inspired yellow staircase and its fir plank screen that balances privacy and sight lines. —Morgan Goldberg, Architectural Digest, 4 Oct. 2024

It's beautifully designed, with a spacious terrace that overlooks a verdant valley dotted with fir trees. —Ann Lee, theweek, 5 Sep. 2024

In the entry, Lisa and team maintained the old fir floors and all the antique light fixtures. —Sarah Yang, Sunset Magazine, 3 Sep. 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