furnace

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   an enclosed chamber in which heat is produced to heat buildings, destroy refuse, smelt or refine ores, etc.

   The furnace melted the ore before sunrise.

2. 2
   noun

   An industrial heating device, such as for smelting metal or firing ceramics.

   Plans for the next phase include furnaces capable of inert atmospheres and partial vacuums.

3. 3
   noun

   A device that provides heat for a building.

   HVAC services include furnace maintenance.

4. 4
   noun

   Any area that is excessively hot.

   The busy kitchen became a sweltering furnace.

From Middle English forneys, from Old French fornais (French fournaise), from Latin fornāx.

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