firewall
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈfaɪərwɔl/
KK: /ˈfaɪərwɔl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To apply full power or speed, especially in vehicles or aircraft.
Example
The driver decided to firewall the accelerator to overtake the car in front.
Tense Forms
Past: firewalled
Past Participle: firewalled
Conversation
Did you see how fast that car was going on the track?
Yeah, they really firewall it when they hit the straightaway!
I wish I could drive like that one day.
Just practice, and you'll be able to firewall it too!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
accelerate
thrust
speed
Antonyms
decelerate
slow
halt
noun
Definition
A protective barrier that stops the spread of fire or a security system that controls access to a computer network.
Example
The company installed a firewall to protect its network from cyber attacks.
Conversation
Have you heard about the new firewall they installed at work?
Yeah, I heard it helps protect our network from hackers.
I think it's really important to have a strong firewall these days.
Root Explanation
**Firewall** → The word is formed from "fire" (from Old English *fyr*, meaning combustion or flame) and "wall" (from Old English *weall*, meaning a structure that encloses or defends). A firewall is a barrier designed to protect against fire or unauthorized access in a network context.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'wall' that protects against 'fire' — that's what a firewall does, it acts as a protective barrier.
Visually Confused Words
rewall