bonfire

noun

bon·​fire ˈbän-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce bonfire (audio)
Synonyms of bonfirenext
: a large fire built in the open air

Examples of bonfire 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.
The staff invited us to step off the train and sip champagne or hot chocolate around a blazing bonfire. — Justin Meneguzzi, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2026 Ginger offers a spicy, citrus-like tang, while woods ground the scent and give a fiery, bonfire-like element. — Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 20 June 2026 There is also plenty of pomp, along with bells, bonfires, and illuminations. — Sheldon Pearce, New Yorker, 3 July 2026 Freestanding fireplaces, fire bowls, chimeneas, even tabletop bonfires can deliver a smores-worthy night out at home. — Jamie Gold, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for bonfire

Word History

Etymology

Middle English bonefire a fire of bones, from bon bone + fire

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bonfire was in the 15th century

Rhymes for bonfire

See All Rhymes for bonfire

Browse Nearby Words

boneyard
bonfire
Bonfire Night
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bonfire.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bonfire. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

bonfire

noun
bon·​fire ˈbän-ˌfī(ə)r How to pronounce bonfire (audio)
: a large outdoor fire

More from Merriam-Webster on bonfire

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for bonfire

Nglish: Translation of bonfire for Spanish Speakers

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