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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
All fir trees are useful to birds, and some are available in dwarf form for smaller gardens. Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 July 2025 It’s made with fir wood, which can stand up to the elements (and watering) without warping, and there are drainage holes already built in. Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 2 July 2025 It’s made with solid fir wood that can withstand all types of weather and has a waterproof roof. Clint Davis, People.com, 10 June 2025 The forested foothills are full of pine and fir trees and the area is a popular mountain park for hiking and biking. Kirk Siegler, NPR, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for fir

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of fir was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fir.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fir. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

fir

noun
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
: any tree of the genus Abies see balsam fir

More from Merriam-Webster on fir

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