Definition

1. Noun:
   • The act of repairing or restoring something to working order: "Fixing" refers to the process of mending, correcting, or making something functional again.
   • A restraint or device that holds something in place: "Fixing" can also mean a component or fastener that secures an object to another.
   • (In histology) The preservation and hardening of a tissue sample: This is a specialized scientific meaning, referring to a process that prepares biological tissue for microscopic study by stabilizing its structure.
   • The act of sterilizing an animal: A specific, informal use referring to the neutering or spaying of a pet.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Repairing):
  • The fixing of the leaky faucet took only twenty minutes.
  • Her skill in the fixing of antique clocks is remarkable.
• Noun (Fastener/Restraint):
  • The shelf came with all the necessary metal fixings.
  • Check the fixings on the trailer to ensure it's secure.
• Noun (Histology):
  • Proper fixing of the specimen is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
• Noun (Sterilizing):
  • We scheduled the fixing of our cat for next week.

Advanced Usage

• "In a fix": This is a common idiom meaning to be in a difficult situation. Note: This idiom uses "fix" (noun), not the gerund "fixing."
  • Losing my passport right before the flight left me in a real fix.

Variants and Related Words

• Fix (verb/noun): The base form. As a verb: to repair or make stable. As a noun: a difficult situation (see idiom above) or a solution.
• Fixture (noun): A permanent piece of equipment or furniture attached to a building.
• Fixed (adjective): Securely placed or repaired; not subject to change.

Synonyms

• Repairing: Mending, restoring.
• Fastening: Securing, attaching, anchoring.
• Preservation (for histology): Stabilizing, setting.

Related Phrasal Verbs (from the base verb "fix")

• Fix up: To repair, renovate, or arrange.
  • They fixed up the old house before selling it.
• Fix on: To decide on or choose.
  • We've finally fixed on a date for the wedding.
• Fix with: To look at someone intently.
  • She fixed him with a stern stare.

Related Idioms

• Fix someone's wagon: To get revenge on someone or ensure they are punished.
  • If he tells the boss, that will fix his wagon.
• Get a fix on something: To obtain a clear understanding or determination of something's location or nature.
  • The detectives are trying to get a fix on the suspect's whereabouts.

Noun

1. (histology) the preservation and hardening of a tissue sample to retain as nearly as possible the same relations they had in the living body
2. the sterilization of an animal
   • they took him to the vet for neutering
3. restraint that attaches to something or holds something in place
4. the act of putting something in working order again