campfire

[kamp-fahy^uhr]

noun

1. an outdoor fire for warmth or cooking, as at a camp.

2. a gathering around such a fire.

3. a reunion of soldiers, scouts, etc.

campfire

/ ˈkæmpˌfaɪə /

noun

1. an outdoor fire in a camp, esp one used for cooking or as a focal point for community events

Word History and Origins

Origin of campfire¹

First recorded in 1665–75; camp ¹ + fire

Example Sentences

They sat around the campfire that night talking about the remarkable life of the man they had rescued and the lessons to be learned from his plight.

From Los Angeles Times

On Thursday, the agency said that the Angeles National Forest is now at the extreme fire danger level, meaning campfires, stoves, barbecues or open flames are prohibited.

From Los Angeles Times

Like walking through a sparse forest in early autumn, the air sharp with smoke from a campfire, leaves underfoot brittle enough to crack.

From Salon

The day after the campfire meeting, I speak to Dima, who wants to tell me more about his dad.

From BBC

Twenty-five years from today, Santa Ana winds will scream through Los Angeles on a dry autumn morning, turning a small hillside campfire into a deadly, fast-moving blaze.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• blaze 
• bonfire 
• heat 
• inferno