firmly

American

[furm-lee] / ˈfɜrm li /

adverb

in a manner or position that is secure and solid.

Make sure the grab bar is installed properly and remains firmly attached to the wall.
The well-being of humankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly established.
in a calm, assertive, or authoritative voice or manner.

As a teacher I learned how to speak firmly and loudly without being harsh.
in a resolute or unwavering manner.

When people firmly believe something essential to their worldview, they construct supporting beliefs in order to avoid having that worldview collapse.
in a fixed way; steadily.

To keep your eyes firmly focused on the road, make sure you have a pair of good sunglasses handy in case the sun becomes dazzling.

Etymology

Origin of firmly

firm ¹ ( def. ) + -ly

Explanation

When you do something firmly, you do it with strength or in a secure way, like when you shut a door firmly behind you so your cat can't get out. You might grab a tennis racket firmly in your hands, gripping it hard, and then firmly smack the ball across the net. You can also act in a firm, or determined way: "I told her firmly that she couldn't borrow my clothes without asking next time." The Latin root of both firmly and firm is firmus, "strong, steadfast, trusty, or stable."

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Vocabulary lists containing firmly

"The Clever Old Woman" and "Argument"

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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.

However, the heavyweight division is now entering a transitional phase and Dubois sits firmly at the centre of it.

From BBC • May 10, 2026

"Taiwan and Paraguay are partners firmly committed to the values of democracy, freedom and human rights," Lai said.

From Barron's • May 8, 2026

“But SNL UK is Sky’s most talked about show of the year. It’s now firmly part of the cultural conversation and we’re thrilled the show will be returning.”

From MarketWatch • May 7, 2026

And just 24 hours earlier, a draw for Manchester City had tilted the English Premier League’s title firmly in Arsenal’s favor.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

“No,” she said firmly, realizing it was true.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023