v.
Pronunciation: ' f ə r-nish
Function: transitive verb
Etymology: Middle English furnisshen, from Anglo-French furniss-, stem of furnir, fournir to complete, equip, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German frummen to further, fruma advantage ― more at FOREMOST
Date: 15th century
1 : to provide with what is needed especially : to equip with furniture
2 : SUPPLY , GIVE < furnish ed food and shelter for the refugees>
– fur · nish · er noun
synonyms FURNISH , EQUIP , OUTFIT , APPOINT , ACCOUTRE mean to supply one with what is needed. FURNISH implies the provision of any or all essentials for performing a function <a sparsely furnished apartment>. EQUIP suggests the provision of something making for efficiency in action or use <a fully equipped kitchen>. OUTFIT implies provision of a complete list or set of articles as for a journey, an expedition, or a special occupation < outfitted the family for a ski trip>. APPOINT implies provision of complete and usually elegant or elaborate equipment or furnishings <a lavishly appointed apartment>. ACCOUTRE suggests the supplying of personal dress or equipment for a special activity <fully accoutred members of a polar expedition>.