First

Definition

First refers to the position, rank, or sequence that comes before all others. It can describe the initial occurrence, the highest ranking, or the foremost in importance or time.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Adverb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fɜːrst/
• Respelling: FURST

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fɜːst/
• Respelling: FURST

Etymology

The word "first" originates from Old English "fyrst," meaning "foremost" or "earliest," derived from Proto-Germanic "*furista-" (foremost) and ultimately from Proto-Indo-European "*per-" (front or before).

Derivatives

• Firstly (adverb)
• Firstborn (adjective/noun)
• Firsthand (adjective/adverb)
• First-rate (adjective)
• Firstling (noun)

Synonyms

• Primary
• Initial
• Foremost

Antonyms

• Last
• Final
• None

Usage

The term "first" is used in various contexts, such as "He was the first to arrive at the event" (adjective), "She finished first in the race" (adverb), and "Being the first is an honor" (noun). It emphasizes precedence in time, order, or importance.

Related Terms

• Initial: Denoting the beginning or start of something.
• Primary: Of chief importance or rank.
• Pioneer: A person who is among the first to explore or settle an area.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Preceding all others in time, order, or importance: Refers to the initial or foremost position.
  • Example: "She is the first woman to win the award."
• Ranking above all others: Denotes the highest level or importance.
  • Example: "The first place winner received a gold medal."

Adverb

• Before anything else: Describes an action occurring earlier than others.
  • Example: "Let me first explain the rules."
• For the first time: Indicates an initial occurrence.
  • Example: "I met him first at the conference."

Noun

• The person or thing that comes before all others: Refers to the foremost position or rank.
  • Example: "He was the first to cross the finish line."
• The earliest occurrence of something: Denotes the initial event or instance.
  • Example: "The first of its kind was introduced in 1900."