Definition

Noun: 1. A small outdoor fire for warmth or cooking (as at a camp): A controlled fire, typically built on the ground, used by people camping or in an outdoor setting to provide heat, light, a means for cooking, and a social focal point.

Usage

The word "campfire" is used to describe the fire itself and, by extension, the social gathering or activity that takes place around it. It is a compound noun formed from "camp" + "fire." * It is typically built in a designated fire pit or ring for safety. * It is associated with recreational activities like singing, storytelling, and roasting food.

Examples

• We gathered around the campfire to tell stories and roast marshmallows.
• The park ranger reminded us to fully extinguish the campfire before leaving.
• The cozy glow of the campfire provided welcome warmth against the chilly night air.
• Cooking over a campfire gives the food a distinctive smoky flavor.

Advanced Usage

• "Campfire circle" or "campfire ring": Refers to the designated, often stone-lined, area where a campfire is built.
• "Campfire tales/stories": Refers specifically to stories, often suspenseful or folkloric, told in the setting of a campfire.
  • He was a master at telling spooky campfire tales that kept everyone on edge.

Variants and Related Words

• Campfire cooking (n.): The activity or method of preparing food over a campfire.
• Campfire program (n.): An organized educational or entertainment event centered around a campfire, common in parks and summer camps.
• Bonfire (n.): A large, controlled outdoor fire, often for a public celebration or event. A bonfire is generally much larger than a campfire.

Synonyms

• Fire (in this specific outdoor, recreational context)
• Open fire
• Watch fire (archaic, a fire kept burning at night for light or as a signal)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "To sit around the campfire": To participate in the social activity of being with others by a campfire.
  • After a long day of hiking, there's nothing better than sitting around the campfire with friends.
• "Campfire sing-along": A group singing session held around a campfire.
  • The evening ended with a cheerful campfire sing-along.

Noun

1. a small outdoor fire for warmth or cooking (as at a camp)