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Bonfire Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bonfire

[ˈbɒn.faɪər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

outdoor gathering

A bonfire is a large, controlled outdoor fire used for warmth, cooking, and entertainment. It is typically made of wood and can be found at campsites, beaches, or festivals.

Synonyms

blaze, campfire, flame.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bonfire

Typically used to describe a large outdoor fire, often for celebrations or gatherings.

  • We had a bonfire at the beach last weekend
  • The village held a bonfire to celebrate the festival
campfire

Used to describe a small, contained fire typically used for cooking or warmth during camping trips.

  • We roasted marshmallows over the campfire
  • The campfire kept us warm during the chilly night
blaze

Often refers to a very intense fire with strong flames, and can carry a somewhat negative connotation if it implies danger or destruction.

  • The blaze destroyed several buildings downtown
  • Firefighters quickly responded to the blaze at the warehouse
flame

Refers to the visible, often smaller part of a fire and can be used metaphorically to describe passion or emotions.

  • The flame flickered in the wind
  • Her speech ignited a flame of hope in everyone's hearts

Examples of usage

  • We gathered around the bonfire to roast marshmallows.
  • The beach party ended with a bonfire by the shore.
Context #2 | Verb

celebration

To bonfire means to celebrate with a large outdoor fire. It is often done as a communal event to mark a special occasion or holiday.

Synonyms

celebrate, commemorate, mark.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bonfire

Typically used to describe a large outdoor fire that is often part of a celebration, such as a party or a seasonal festival.

  • We all gathered around the bonfire to roast marshmallows and tell stories
  • The community holds a giant bonfire every year to mark the start of summer
celebrate

Used when referring to marking a special occasion with enjoyable activities or festivities.

  • We celebrate Christmas with family dinners and gift exchanges
  • They will celebrate their anniversary by going out to a fancy restaurant
commemorate

Used to honor and remember a significant event or person, often through ceremonies or memorials.

  • The town built a statue to commemorate the founder
  • We will hold a ceremony to commemorate the soldiers who died in the war
mark

Used to denote recognizing or paying attention to an important event or date, often without the implication of celebration.

  • Today marks the one-year anniversary of her passing
  • The holiday marks the beginning of the harvest season

Examples of usage

  • We decided to bonfire for our anniversary this year.
  • The community bonfired to welcome the new year.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'bonfire'

The word 'bonfire' originated from the Middle English term 'bonefire' which referred to a fire in which bones were burned. Over time, the 'bone' was dropped, and the modern term 'bonfire' emerged. Bonfires have been a part of human tradition for centuries, used for warmth, cooking, and ceremonial purposes. They continue to be a popular form of outdoor gathering and celebration in many cultures around the world.

See also: fiery, fire, firearm, firearms, firebomb, firebox, firebrand, firebug, firecrackers, fired, firefighter, fireman, fireplace, firepower, firestorm, firewall, firewoman, firework, fireworks, firing, misfire.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,472, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.