fireplace
Americannoun
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the part of a chimney that opens into a room and in which fuel is burned; hearth.
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any open structure, usually of masonry, for keeping a fire, as at a campsite.
noun
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an open recess in a wall of a room, at the base of a chimney, etc, for a fire; hearth
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an authorized place or installation for outside cooking, esp by a roadside
Etymology
Origin of fireplace
Explanation
A fireplace is a structure built into the wall of a house or building where a flame can be safely kindled, providing warmth and a cozy atmosphere, especially on cold nights. Often made of brick, stone, or metal, a fireplace not only warms a room but also creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere that offers relief from the cold. Historically, fireplaces were the heart of the home, essential for heating and cooking. In medieval times, they were often located in the center of the room, allowing the smoke to escape through a hole in the roof. It wasn’t until the Renaissance that chimneys became common, making fireplaces more efficient and less smoky.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The primary suite also features a red-brick fireplace as well as a beautiful en-suite bathroom with a large soaking tub and a separate walk-in shower.
From MarketWatch • Jun. 1, 2026
A large open-plan kitchen comes complete with a casual dining space, ideal for hosting large groups, while the sun-soaked living room boasts its own fireplace for cozier evenings during the winter months.
From MarketWatch • May 27, 2026
Letters flood in from the fireplace, windows and nearly seem to cause the house to burst.
From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2026
Series one was filmed in the identical unit next door, which is occupied by a fireplace business, but for series two it was easier to move Capper's bike shop.
From BBC • May 6, 2026
Now that Penelope had returned, Margaret would spend the rest of this lovely day cleaning fireplace grates, sweeping carpets, and tending to the whims of her high-strung mistress whenever Lady Constance rang the bell.
From "The Hidden Gallery" by Maryrose Wood
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
