firedog

[ fahyuhr-dawg, -dog ]

noun

, Chiefly South Midland and Southern U.S.

1. andiron.

firedog

/ ˈfaɪəˌdɒɡ /

noun

1. either of a pair of decorative metal stands used to support logs in an open fire

Word History and Origins

Origin of firedog¹

First recorded in 1785–95; fire + dog

Example Sentences

The walls, the paneling, the pervasive heaviness of nearly new fixtures, the colossal firedogs, the walk-in fireplaces of bright new stone referred back through the centuries to a time of lonely castles in mute forests.

From Literature

The most impressive of firedogs suggest an elaborate gate to a private park.

From New York Times

A utensil for supporting wood when burning in a fireplace, one being placed on each side; a firedog; as, a pair of andirons.

From Project Gutenberg

Freke took up the tongs and made a vigorous attack on the fire, and in two minutes the flames were leaping around the brass firedogs.

From Project Gutenberg

We walked through the big dark kitchen where the old three-legged pot towered large on the hearth, and the old spits and firedogs still kept their ancient place.

From Project Gutenberg