fix

n. countable

B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˈfɪks// UK //fˈɪks// fix

Archaic General-service Informal Slang

n. a quick or temporary solution to a problem. It can also mean an amount of something you crave, like coffee or news.

n. a solution to a problem, often one that is temporary or improvised; also, a regular dose of something that satisfies a craving. Informal in register when used to mean a solution or a dose.

SIMPLE

The mechanic found a quick fix for the engine problem.

CONTEXTUAL

I really need my morning caffeine fix before I can start answering emails.

COMPLEX

While the new software patch provides a temporary fix for the security vulnerability, the developers are still working on a permanent overhaul of the system's architecture.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Origin

From Middle English fixen, borrowed from Old French fixer (attested only as ficher, fichier; > English fitch), from fix (“fastened; fixed”), from Latin fīxus (“immovable; steady; stable; fixed”), from fīgō (“to drive in; stick; fasten”), from Proto-Indo-European dʰeygʷ- (“to jab; stick; set”). Related to dig.

Usage

Often used in the phrase 'quick fix' to imply a solution that lacks depth or longevity.

Idioms3 entries