"the bed should be reasonably firm, but not too hard"

• solidly in place and stable

  "no building can stand without firm foundations"

• having steady but not excessive power or strength

  "you need a firm grip on the steering"

• showing resolute determination and strength of character

  "parents should be firm with children and not give in to their demands"

"he retains a firm belief in the efficacy of prayer"

• steadfast and constant

  "we became firm friends"

• decided upon and fixed or definite

  "she had no firm plans for the next day"

• (of a currency, shares, etc.) having a steady value or price which is more likely to rise than fall

  "the pound was firm against the dollar"

"how can I firm up a sagging bustline?"

• fix (a plant) securely in the soil

  "don't tread around bushes to firm them"

• make (an agreement or plan) explicit and definite

  "the agreements still have to be firmed up"

• (of a price) rise slightly to reach a level considered secure

  "he believed house prices would firm by the end of the year"

"the Chancellor has held firm to tough economic policies"