surefire

adjective

sure·​fire ˈshu̇r-ˈfī(-ə)r How to pronounce surefire (audio)
ˈshər-
: certain to get successful or expected results
a surefire recipe

Examples of surefire in a Sentence

The movie is a surefire hit with teenagers. There is no surefire way to predict the outcome.
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.
And there's one surefire way to know when someone is trying to pull one over on you. Allison Schrager, Twin Cities, 27 Feb. 2025 With their win last week over New Mexico, coupled with early-season victories over Clemson and Saint Mary’s — surefire NCAA Tournament teams — the Broncos are in the conversation. Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 26 Feb. 2025 Physical touch is a surefire way to enhance and strengthen your relationship and create a greater level of intimacy. Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 26 Feb. 2025 Reading chairs: $59.99 Reading is a favorite pastime of anyone stuck inside all winter, so creating a reading nook is a surefire way to create a cozy spot in your home. Christopher Murray, Fox News, 20 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for surefire

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of surefire was in 1846

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Surefire.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/surefire. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

surefire

adjective
sure·​fire ˌshu̇r-ˌfī(ə)r How to pronounce surefire (audio)
: certain to get results
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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