firm

Meanings

1. 1
   adv

   with resolute determination

   we firmly believed it

2. 2
   adj

   strong and sure

   a firm grasp

3. 3
   adj

   unwavering in devotion to friend or vow or cause

   a firm ally

4. 4
   adj

   securely fixed in place

   the post was still firm after being hit by the car

5. 5
   adj

   not soft or yielding to pressure

   a firm mattress

6. 6
   adj

   possessing the tone and resiliency of healthy tissue

   firm muscles

7. 7
   adj

   securely established

   holds a firm position as the country's leading poet

8. 8
   adj

   not subject to revision or change

   a firm contract

Etymology

From Italian firma (“signature”), from firmare (“to sign”), from Latin firmāre (“to make firm, to confirm (by signature)”), from firmus (“firm, stable”). The contemporary sense developed in the 18th century simultaneously with German Firma (“business, name of business”). There are conflicting statements in the literature as to which of the two languages influenced which. Doublet of dharma and dhamma. Other cognates include Russian держать (deržatʹ, “to hold”).