(n) an open recess in a wall at the base of a chimney where a fire can be built, Syn. hearth, open fireplace, Example:the fireplace was so large you could walk inside it; he laid a fire in the hearth and lit it; the hearth was black with the charcoal of many fires
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English (GCIDE) v.0.53 Collaborative International Dictionary (GCIDE)