Middle English Dictionary Entry
ferm(e adv.
Entry Info
| Forms | ferm(e adv. |
| Etymology | From adj. ferm. |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
1.
(a) Firmly, faithfully; (b) holden ~, hold to (a purpose) resolutely; keep (an agreement) faithfully; obey (a command, etc.) unswervingly; ~ and stable.
Associated quotations
a
- c1400(?a1387) PPl.C (Hnt HM 137)22.120 : That sheo furst and formest sholde ferme byleyue That he thorgh grace was gete.
- c1450 Capgr.St.Kath.(Arun 396)2.808 : I vse treuly myn art..vse my langage stabely and ferme.
b
- 1389 Nrf.Gild Ret.36 : Alle þese Comenauntz a-forsaid sshulle ben holden ferme and stable.
- (c1395) Chaucer CT.Cl.(Manly-Rickert)E.663 : But now I woot youre lust and what ye wolde, Al youre plesance ferme and stable I holde.
- a1425(c1385) Chaucer TC (Benson-Robinson)2.1525 : And thow this purpos holde ferme, Thi grace she shal fully ther conferme.
- a1475 Godstow Reg.(Rwl B.408)31/7 : Holdynge ferme & stable what euyr he wolde do therwith.
- a1500(c1340) Rolle Psalter (UC 64)18.10 : The domes of oure lord..haf na nede of any other auctorite than godis, that thai be halden ferme.