1
: a framed opening made in a chimney to hold an open fire : hearth
also : a metal container with a smoke pipe used for the same purpose
2
: an outdoor structure of brick, stone, or metal for an open fire

Examples of fireplace in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Post-treatment, lounge by the Water Deck, a shallow, six-inch pool lined with curvy in-water lounge chairs and semi-private cabanas with fireplaces. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fireplace

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fireplace was in 1611

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fireplace.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fireplace. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

fireplace

noun
1
: a framed opening in a chimney to hold an open fire
2
: an outdoor structure of brick, stone, or metal for an open fire

More from Merriam-Webster on fireplace

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!