fireplace
UK: ˈfaɪəpleɪs | US: ˈfaɪərpleɪs
n. a structure made of brick, stone, or metal, designed to contain a fire for heating or cooking
The word "fireplace" is a straightforward compound of "fire" (Old English fȳr, meaning burning flames) and "place" (Old English plæce, meaning a specific location). It emerged in Middle English (14th century) to describe a dedicated space for a domestic fire, reflecting the practical need to distinguish hearths from open fires. The morphemes retain their original meanings, making the word highly intuitive.
The family gathered around the fireplace to stay warm.
She hung stockings on the mantel above the fireplace.
The old cottage had a rustic stone fireplace.
Modern fireplaces often use gas instead of wood.
He cleaned the ashes from the fireplace every morning.