Pronunciation: [fˈɪt ˈa͡ʊt] (IPA) 
"Fit out" is a phrasal verb commonly used in construction and design industries. Its spelling is a bit tricky as it includes the silent letter "t" in "out". The IPA phonetic transcription for "fit out" is /fɪt aʊt/. In this transcription, the first syllable "fit" is pronounced as /fɪt/, with the "i" sound like in "bit". The second syllable "out" is pronounced as /aʊt/, with the sound of "ou" like in "house".
Fit out (verb) – To equip or furnish a space, such as a building, room, or office, with all the necessary elements, fixtures, and furniture required for its intended purpose or function.
The process of fitting out involves planning, designing, and organizing the interior of a space to ensure it meets the desired requirements, aesthetic preferences, and functional needs. It encompasses the installation of essential equipment, systems, and services like electrical, plumbing, heating, and ventilation systems.
The fit-out process typically involves a combination of tasks, such as installing partitions and walls, laying flooring materials, implementing lighting solutions, incorporating storage units, and arranging workstations or furniture. It may also involve the addition of decorative elements, such as paint, wallpaper, or artwork, to enhance the overall appearance and atmosphere of the space.
Fit outs are commonly undertaken in commercial, retail, hospitality, and residential environments to create functional, comfortable, and visually appealing spaces. They may be carried out during the initial construction phase of a building, as part of a renovation or refurbishment project, or simply to refurbish and update an existing space.
Various professionals, including architects, interior designers, contractors, and project managers, often collaborate to ensure a successful fit-out, meeting the specific requirements and preferences of the client.
The word "fit out" originated in the 16th century and has its roots in Old English and Middle English. The term "fit" originally meant "to make suitable or appropriate". In this context, it referred to preparing or supplying something with the necessary equipment, furnishings, or accessories to make it suitable or ready for a particular purpose. The word "out" meant "completely" or "thoroughly".
Over time, the combination of "fit" and "out" came to refer specifically to providing or equipping a ship with everything necessary for a voyage. This could include outfitting it with sails, rigging, provisions, weapons, and other essential equipment.
The phrase "fit out" later expanded in usage to refer to the process of preparing or equipping any type of space or entity, not just ships.
