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.
There’s no shortcut or surefire way to become the perfect candidate for the Forbes Under 30 list. Alexandra York, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025 Habit: Waking Everyone Up With the Overhead Light Flipping on the bright cabin light mid-flight is a surefire way to test your seatmate's patience. Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 12 Apr. 2025 But the surefire trade-it spots — 14 to 16 — seem spoken for. Arthur Staple, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025 Tips to Prevent a Hangover The only surefire way to prevent a hangover is not to consume any alcohol. Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 10 Apr. 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 24 Apr. 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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