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Furnish Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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furnish

[หˆfษœrnษชสƒ ]

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?

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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?

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Word Description / Examples
furnish

Used typically to describe the act of equipping a space with furniture or dรฉcor. 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.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'furnish'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'furnish' originated from the Middle English word 'fournishen', which came from the Old French word 'fournir', meaning 'to provide or supply'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century.

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.