firm

/ˈfərm/

Middle English ferm, from Anglo-French, from Latin firmus; akin to Greek thronos chair, throne

adjective

  1. securely or solidly fixed in place

  2. not weak or uncertain : vigorous

  3. having a solid or compact structure that resists stress or pressure

his teeth were firm

a firm handshake

adverb

  1. in a firm manner : steadfastly, fixedly

verb

  1. to make secure or fast : tighten —often used with up

  2. to make solid or compact

  3. to put into final form : settle

firming her grip on the racquet

firm the soil