firm1

adjective

• 1having a solid, almost unyielding surface or structure:the bed should be reasonably firm, but not too hard
• solidly in place and stable:no building can stand without firm foundations figurativehe was unable to establish the store on a firm financial footing
• having steady but not excessive power or strength:you need a firm grip on the steering
• (of a person, action, or attitude) showing resolute determination and strength of character:he didn’t like being firm with Larry, but he had to

• 2strongly felt and unlikely to change:he retains a firm belief in the efficacy of prayer
• (of a person) steadfast and constant:we became firm friends
• decided upon and fixed or definite:she had no firm plans for the next day
• (of a currency, a commodity, or shares) having a steady value or price that is more likely to rise than fall:the dollar was firm against the yen

verb

• make (something) physically solid or resilient:an exercise program designed to firm up muscle tone
• fix (a plant) securely in the soil.
• [no object] (of a price) rise slightly to reach a level considered secure:he believed house prices would firm by the end of the year
• make (an agreement or plan) explicit and definite:archaeologists have now firmed up this new view

adverb

• in a resolute and determined manner:she will stand firm against the government’s proposal