Definition

1. Noun:
   • A person who arranges or settles matters, especially by using influence or sometimes improper methods: A "fixer" is someone who solves problems or makes arrangements, often through personal connections or unofficial means.
   • A skilled worker who repairs or adjusts things: A "fixer" can be someone whose job is to mend or restore items to working order.
   • A chemical agent used in photography or dyeing: In technical contexts, a "fixer" is a chemical solution that makes an image or color permanent.
   • A substance used in narcotic treatment: In medical contexts, a "fixer" can refer to a synthetic drug used in addiction treatment programs.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Person who arranges):
  • The political fixer was known for his ability to make scandals disappear.
  • We need a fixer to help us get the necessary permits quickly.
• Noun (Repair worker):
  • He's a great fixer; he can repair almost any broken appliance.
  • The company hired a fixer to maintain the old machinery.
• Noun (Chemical agent):
  • After developing the film, you must immerse it in the fixer to stabilize the image.
  • The textile factory uses a chemical fixer to set the dyes in the fabric.
• Noun (Medical substance):
  • The clinic uses a fixer as part of its heroin addiction maintenance program.

Advanced Usage

• "Fixer-upper": (Note: This is a compound word listed separately as a variant). A property that is in poor condition and requires repair.
  • They bought a cheap fixer-upper and spent years renovating it.
• The role of a fixer in journalism: A local person who assists foreign journalists by arranging interviews, translation, and logistics, often in dangerous or complex regions.
  • The reporter relied heavily on her fixer to navigate the local culture and politics.

Variants and Related Words

• Fix (verb): To repair, mend, or make firm.
  • I need to fix the leaky faucet.
• Fixed (adjective): Attached securely; not subject to change.
  • The date for the meeting is now fixed.
• Fixer-upper (noun): A house or other property that requires repair work.
  • The young couple was looking for an affordable fixer-upper.

Synonyms

• Arranger: A person who organizes or plans something.
• Repairer: A person who mends broken items.
• Go-between: An intermediary or mediator.
• Operator (informal): A person who acts in a shrewd or manipulative way to achieve their aims.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

• To fix on/upon: To decide on or choose something.
  • They finally fixed on a date for the wedding.
• To fix up: To repair, renovate, or arrange something.
  • We need to fix up the old car before we can sell it.
  • Can you fix me up with a ticket to the concert?

Related Idioms

• In a fix: In a difficult or awkward situation.
  • I'm in a real fix; I've lost my keys and my phone is dead.
• Quick fix: A simple, temporary solution to a problem, often not addressing the root cause.
  • Using tape to stop the leak is just a quick fix; we need a proper repair.

Noun

1. synthetic narcotic drug similar to morphine but less habit-forming; used in narcotic detoxification and maintenance of heroin addiction
2. a skilled worker who mends or repairs things
3. a chemical compound that sets or fixes something (as a dye or a photographic image)
4. someone who intervenes with authorities for a person in trouble (usually using underhand or illegal methods for a fee)