nounπShareA business partnership; the name under which it trades.""Several accounting firms bid on the contract to audit the school's finances." "businesscommerceChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
nounπShareA business enterprise, however organized."Several firms in the city offer after-school programs for children. "businesseconomyorganizationcommercefinanceindustryChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
nounπShareA criminal gang, especially based around football hooliganism.""The police monitored several football firms known for causing trouble at matches and engaging in violent clashes." "groupsportsocietyentertainmentChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
verbπShareTo make firm or strong; fix securely."The athlete firms her grip on the weight before lifting it. "actionbusinessChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
verbπShareTo make compact or resistant to pressure; solidify."The baker firms the dough by kneading it thoroughly, making it smooth and ready to rise. "materialphysicschemistryChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
verbπShareTo become firm; stabilise."As the jelly cooled, it slowly firmed, becoming solid enough to eat. "businesseconomyChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
verbπShareTo improve after decline."After a slow start to the semester, Maria's confidence firms as she understands the material. "businesseconomyChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
verbπShareTo shorten (of betting odds)."The bookmaker firms the odds on the favorite after a lot of people bet on them to win. "betbusinessfinanceChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
verbπShareTo select (a higher education institution) as one's preferred choice, so as to enrol automatically if one's grades match the conditional offer."She firmed Oxford as her first choice, hoping her exam results would be high enough to secure her place. "educationChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
