Meaning of the word fire in English

What does fire mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

fire

US /faɪr/

UK /faɪər/

combustion or burning, in which substances combine chemically with oxygen from the air and typically give out bright light, heat, and smoke

Example:

•

The house caught fire and burned down.

•

We sat around the campfire telling stories.

Synonym:

flame blaze inferno conflagration combustion

the shooting of guns or artillery

Example:

•

The soldiers opened fire on the enemy.

•

They came under heavy fire from the rebels.

Synonym:

gunfire shooting barrage volley fusillade

discharge a gun or other weapon in order to propel a projectile

Example:

•

The hunter aimed and fired his rifle.

•

The cannon fired a warning shot.

Synonym:

shoot discharge launch propel detonate

dismiss an employee from a job

Example:

•

The company decided to fire several employees due to budget cuts.

•

If you're late one more time, I'll have to fire you.

Synonym:

dismiss sack terminate discharge lay off