Furnish: meaning, definitions and examples

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furnish

[ˈfɜrnɪʃ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

home decor

To provide a house or room with furniture and necessary equipment. It includes items such as sofas, tables, chairs, and appliances.

Synonyms

decorate, equip, outfit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
furnish	Typically used when talking about providing furniture or fittings for a room or building. It implies supplying necessary items to make a space functional. They decided to furnish the new apartment with modern furniture. The company will furnish the office by the end of the month.
equip	Suitable for situations where you're providing necessary tools, equipment, or machinery for a specific purpose or activity. Often used in contexts like kitchens, offices, or laboratories. The lab was equipped with the latest technology. Before going on the hike, they equipped themselves with all the necessary gear.
decorate	Used when referring to making a space more visually appealing. It often involves adding aesthetic elements such as paint, wallpaper, photographs, or other decorative items. They decided to decorate the living room before the holiday season. We decorate the house every year for Christmas.
outfit	Usually used when talking about providing a set of clothes or gear for a specific purpose, but it can also refer to equipping someone or something with necessary items. It often has connotations of completeness. The team was outfitted with new uniforms. The expedition was outfitted with all the tools they needed for survival.

Examples of usage

She decided to furnish her new apartment with modern furniture.
The company offers a variety of options to furnish your living space.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

information

To supply information or data for a particular purpose.

Synonyms

give, provide, supply.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
furnish	Used typically to describe the act of equipping a space with furniture or décor. It can also mean supplying someone with something necessary or desired. They furnished their new apartment with modern furniture The company will furnish you with all the tools you need for the job
provide	Used when ensuring that someone has something they need or want, often in a more formal or official context. It implies a sense of responsibility or duty. The school provides free lunch to its students They will provide you with the necessary information
supply	Used when making something available to someone or a group, particularly in large quantities or over a period of time. Often used in commercial or logistical contexts. The company supplies local restaurants with fresh produce We need to ensure we can supply enough products to meet demand
give	Used to describe the act of handing something to someone without expecting anything in return. It is the most general term and can be applied in any situation involving a transfer from one person to another. She gave him a gift Please give me your attention

Examples of usage

The report will furnish us with the necessary details for the project.
The book will furnish you with all the information you need for your research.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'furnish' comes from the Middle English word 'furnishen', meaning to supply or give.
Its roots trace back to the Old French 'fournir', which means to provide or equip.
The Latin word 'furnire', translating to 'to supply', is the original form that influenced its evolution.

Historical Usage

In the 18th century, 'furnish' was commonly used in the context of aristocratic households, where rooms were lavishly decorated with expensive furniture.
Before modern terms emerged, 'furnish' was also used in legal documents to mean providing evidence or documents.

Art and Design

In interior design, furnishing is critical for creating a functional and aesthetic space that reflects personal style.
Historical periods, like the Baroque or Victorian, influenced furnishing styles, with ornate designs being popular during those times.

Psychology

Furnishing is linked to psychological well-being; a well-furnished space can enhance feelings of comfort and safety.
Studies show that personalizing our surroundings can lead to increased happiness and reduced stress.

Pop Culture

TV shows like 'Fixer Upper' and 'Queer Eye' emphasize the importance of furnishing homes to transform lives and improve spaces.
Interior design reality competitions highlight trends in furnishings, influencing how society views home aesthetics.

Translations

Translations of the word "furnish" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mobiliar

🇮🇳 सजाना

🇩🇪 möblieren

🇮🇩 melengkapi

🇺🇦 обставляти

🇵🇱 umeblować

🇯🇵 備え付ける (そなえつける)

🇫🇷 meubler

🇪🇸 amueblar

🇹🇷 mobilya döşemek

🇰🇷 가구를 배치하다

🇸🇦 تأثيث

🇨🇿 zařídit

🇸🇰 zariadiť

🇨🇳 布置 (bùzhì)

🇸🇮 opremiti

🇮🇸 mubliera

🇰🇿 жиһазбен жабдықтау

🇬🇪 შემოსვა

🇦🇿 mebellər ilə təmin etmək

🇲🇽 amueblar

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,865, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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2862 tension
2863 integration
2864 mistake
2865 furnish
2866 disposal
2867 recording
2868 conservation
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