First
ˈfɜːrst
Definitions
3 meaningsPreceding all others in a series; earliest or foremost.
ˈfɜːrst
Coming before all others in time or order
She was the first person to arrive.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're lining up for ice cream. The person at the very front of the line is the 'first' person to get their treat! It means the earliest or the one that comes at the beginning.
👶 For kids: Being the very first one!
More Examples
This is my first time here.
The first chapter of the book is quite intriguing.
How It's Used
"The first day of the week is Monday."
"The First World War was devastating."
Before all others in time, order, or importance.
ˈfɜːrst
Before all others in time or order
First, we need to buy the ingredients.
💡 Simply: When you're explaining how to do something, you often say 'first' to show where to start. Like, 'First, we need to gather our supplies!'
👶 For kids: Happening before anything else.
More Examples
I'll eat breakfast first, then go to work.
First, let's understand the problem, and then find a solution.
How It's Used
"First, you add the flour, then the eggs."
"I first saw her at the library."
The person or thing that is foremost in rank, time, or order; the winner or leader.
ˈfɜːrst
The person or thing that comes first
The athlete finished first in the marathon.
💡 Simply: Think of a competition where someone wins! The 'first' is the champion – they came in at number one!
👶 For kids: The winner!
More Examples
Our team came in first place.
She was awarded first prize.
How It's Used
"He came in first in the race."
"She aimed to win the first prize."
Idioms & expressions
at first
Initially; at the beginning.
"At first, I didn't understand what he meant."
first and foremost
Above all; most importantly.
"First and foremost, you should prioritize your health."
first name
The name given to a person at birth or baptism, before the family name.
"What is your first name?"
first of all
Used to introduce the first point or thing to be considered.
"First of all, we need to gather the necessary materials."
From Old English *fyrst*, from Proto-Germanic *furistaz* ('foremost'). Related to 'fore'.
Used since Old English times, reflecting the concept of precedence or priority.
Memory tip
Think of the beginning of a race, where the person in front is 'first'.