firebox
firebox Lexical Profile
firebox Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The enclosed interior section of a fireplace or wood stove where the fire is physically contained.
"We need to clean the accumulated ash out of the firebox before starting a new fire this evening."
The chamber or compartment in a steam locomotive, boiler, or furnace where fuel is burned to produce heat.
"The engineer shoveled coal into the glowing firebox to build up enough steam for the steep climb over the mountains."
American A small, brightly colored wall-mounted box containing a mechanical alarm switch that can be pulled to summon the fire department in an emergency.
"During the fire drill, the teacher explained that the firebox in the hallway should only be pulled in a real emergency."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Originated in the early 19th century as a compound of 'fire' and 'box', primarily coined to describe the combustion chamber of a steam locomotive or boiler.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.