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• fire extinguisher
  fire extinguisher

  noun

  a portable container, usually filled with special chemicals for putting out a fire.
• fire-extinguisher
  fire-extinguisher

  noun

  a portable device for extinguishing fires, usually consisting of a canister with a directional nozzle used to direct a spray of water, chemically generated foam, inert gas, or fine powder onto the fire

fire extinguisher

American  

noun

1. a portable container, usually filled with special chemicals for putting out a fire.

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fire-extinguisher British  

noun

1. a portable device for extinguishing fires, usually consisting of a canister with a directional nozzle used to direct a spray of water, chemically generated foam, inert gas, or fine powder onto the fire

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Etymology

Origin of fire extinguisher

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

Her parents made sure she knew how to use a fire extinguisher, which was very heavy.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026

Another sprayed a fire extinguisher, sending up a white cloud.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

Small, professionally manufactured barbecues are allowed, as long as they are elevated at least a foot off the ground, placed at least 25 feet from buildings, and accompanied by a nearby fire extinguisher.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 31, 2025

This is like a fire extinguisher that requires a 48-hour waiting period.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 5, 2025

When I’d blasted it with water from the fire extinguisher, the burning plastic had simply scattered and the fire spread, and for a moment I’d been terrified—the service area was full of old wood.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover