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Firefighter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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firefighter

[ˈfaɪərˌfaɪtər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

emergency response

A firefighter is a person who is trained to extinguish fires and rescue people from dangerous situations.

Synonyms

fire warden, fireman, firewoman.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
firefighter

Use this term when referring to any personnel, regardless of gender, in the profession of fighting fires. This is the most inclusive and widely accepted term.

  • The firefighter quickly put out the flames.
  • Firefighters are trained to handle emergencies.
fireman

An older term traditionally used to refer to male firefighters. It is less common now due to its gender-specific nature.

  • The fireman climbed the ladder to rescue the cat.
  • In the past, firemen mainly used manual pumps to fight fires.
firewoman

A term used to specifically refer to female firefighters. Like 'fireman', it is less common and can be seen as non-inclusive.

  • The firewoman received an award for her bravery.
  • She is the first firewoman to join the local fire department.
fire warden

This term refers to a person responsible for safety measures and fire prevention in a specific building or area, often in a non-professional, volunteer, or part-time capacity.

  • The fire warden conducted a fire drill last week.
  • Each floor of the building has a designated fire warden.

Examples of usage

  • The firefighter bravely entered the burning building to save the trapped residents.
  • Many firefighters work long hours to keep their communities safe.
  • The firefighter used a ladder to rescue the cat from the tree.
  • Firefighters undergo rigorous training to prepare for emergencies.
  • The firefighter's quick response saved the family from the house fire.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The profession of firefighting dates back to ancient Rome, where soldiers used buckets to put out fires.
  • The first volunteer fire department in the U.S. was established in 1736 in Philadelphia.
  • In the 19th century, firefighters often responded to blazes with horse-drawn equipment, making their work both physical and challenging.

Technology

  • Modern firefighting techniques include the use of thermal imaging cameras, which help locate hot spots in smoke-filled environments.
  • Firefighters now have advanced communication tools, allowing them to coordinate better during emergencies.
  • Firefighting foam, which helps extinguish chemical fires, has become an essential tool in contemporary firefighting.

Cultural Representation

  • Firefighters are often celebrated in popular media, portrayed as courageous figures in movies, books, and TV shows.
  • The character of 'Fireman Sam' in children's television has taught many kids about fire safety and the importance of firefighters.
  • National Firefighter Day is observed on various dates in different countries to honor heroes in this profession.

Psychology

  • Research shows that firefighters are at a higher risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to the nature of their work.
  • Teamwork and camaraderie among firefighters are crucial for their mental health and operational effectiveness.
  • Firefighters undergo training not only for physical challenges but also for managing high-stress situations.

Safety and Prevention

  • Firefighters play a significant role in education, teaching communities about fire safety and prevention methods.
  • They respond to emergencies beyond fires, including car accidents and natural disasters, showcasing their versatility.
  • The 'Stop, Drop, and Roll' method is a widely taught technique for people to use if their clothes catch fire.

Origin of 'firefighter'

The term 'firefighter' originated in the 19th century to describe individuals whose primary role was to combat and extinguish fires. Over time, the profession has evolved to encompass a wide range of emergency response duties, including rescuing people from accidents and disasters. Firefighters play a crucial role in safeguarding communities and property from the devastation of fires.

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

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,455, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.