furnace

Definition

An industrial heating device, such as for smelting metal or firing ceramics.

Etymology

From Middle English forneys, from Old French fornais (French fournaise), from Latin fornāx.

Example Sentences

• "Plans for the next phase include furnaces capable of inert atmospheres and partial vacuums."
• "HVAC services include furnace maintenance."
• "The busy kitchen became a sweltering furnace."