fixture

noun

fix·​ture ˈfiks-chər How to pronounce fixture (audio)
1
: the act or process of fixing : the state of being fixed
2
a
: something that is fixed or attached (as to a building) as a permanent appendage or as a structural part
a plumbing fixture
b
: a device for supporting work during machining
c
: an item of movable property so incorporated into real property that it may be regarded as legally a part of it
3
: a familiar or invariably present element or feature in some particular setting
especially : a person long associated with a place or activity
4
: a settled date or time especially for a sporting or festive event
also : such an event especially as a regularly scheduled affair

Examples of fixture in a Sentence

He's been a fixture in the parade for many years. She hopes the new educational program will become a permanent fixture at the zoo.
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.
In another scene, Oliver shoves Mallory, breaks a light fixture, and chases her with an axe. Federico Fahsbender, Rolling Stone, 11 Feb. 2025 Industrial elements like metal stools, lantern pendant fixtures, and open shelving mingle with the room's traditional design. Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Feb. 2025 But since the Clasico in Saudi Arabia, the Brazil forward has scored or assisted seven goals in eight appearances and remained a fixture in the side. Mario Cortegana, The Athletic, 9 Feb. 2025 Don’t think of VITA sites as permanent fixtures—the sites vary depending on money and volunteers. Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes, 7 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for fixture 

Word History

Etymology

alteration of earlier fixure (probably after mixture), going back to Middle English, "point of attachment," borrowed from Late Latin fīxūra "action of fixing, place where a nail is fixed," from Latin fīxus, past participle of fīgere "to drive in, insert, fasten" + -ūra -ure — more at fix entry 1

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fixture was in 1598

Dictionary Entries Near fixture

Cite this Entry

“Fixture.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fixture. Accessed 16 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

fixture

noun
fix·​ture ˈfiks-chər How to pronounce fixture (audio)
1
: the act of fixing : the state of being fixed
2
: something attached as a permanent part
bathroom fixtures
3
: one firmly established in a place

Legal Definition

fixture

noun
fix·​ture
: an item of movable property so incorporated into a real property that it may be regarded as legally a part of it

More from Merriam-Webster on fixture

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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