firmer

Firmer is the comparative form of the adjective firm. It is used to indicate a greater degree of firmness, whether in physical properties, structure, or resolve, relative to another object, state, or standard.

Etymology and form: The base adjective firm has a long-standing history in English, meaning solid, steadfast, or stable. The comparative form firmer is created by adding the suffix -er, following common English pattern for one-syllable adjectives. In many contexts, more firm can also be used, but firmer is the standard comparative.

Usage: Physically, firmer describes materials or surfaces that resist deformation more than another reference. For example, a bread crust may be firmer after toasting, or a dough can become firmer as it dries. In abstract or qualitative senses, firmer denotes greater decisiveness, certainty, or commitment, as in a firmer stance or a firmer forecast. In financial and market reporting, prices or demand might be described as firmer when they show stronger support than expected.

Limitations and note: Firmer is primarily a comparative form and is not typically used as a standalone noun. The related noun forms are firm (as a noun) and firmness (as a noun referring to the quality of being firm). Common antonyms include softer, more flexible, or less firm.

See also: firm, firmness, firmly.