fire department

American  

noun

1. the department of a municipal government charged with the prevention and extinguishing of fire.

2. the personnel in such a department.

---

fire department British  

noun

1. the department of a local authority responsible for the prevention and extinguishing of fires

---

Etymology

Origin of fire department

An Americanism dating back to 1815–25

Example Sentences

“The project will generate $28.75 million in annual property tax revenue for local schools, fire departments, libraries, and essential services.”

From Los Angeles Times

At the time, the girl was in stable condition with minor injuries, according to officials from the fire department.

From Los Angeles Times

After the sun came up, "we watched the water recede little by little" before the fire department arrived, Mikey said.

From BBC

In the Tacoma area, Curtis has passed his initial firefighting exam and is currently interviewing with area fire departments.

From The Wall Street Journal

The police and fire departments quickly arrived at the scene of the blast in Buitenveldert district in the south of Amsterdam, the statement said.

From Barron's