Another Word For First

Part of Speech 1: First

Meaning

The word "first" primarily refers to the item or action that comes before all others in order or importance. It can denote position (as in being the first in a race) or sequence (such as the first step in a process).

Synonyms

1. Primary
2. Initial
3. Foremost
4. Leading
5. Premier

Antonyms

1. Last
2. Final
3. Concluding
4. Ultimate
5. Terminal

Examples

1. She was the first student to arrive in class this morning.
2. In his first attempt, he successfully completed the task.
3. The first chapter of the book sets the stage for the entire story.
4. We need to address the first issue before moving on to the next.
5. He holds the first position in the company due to his hard work and dedication.

Etymology

The word "first" comes from the Old English "fyrst," which is akin to the Dutch "eerste" and the German "erste." The term has its roots in the Proto-Germanic "*fruwiz," which also suggests a notion of priority or precedence. Over time, its meanings evolved to encompass both the idea of position and importance in various contexts.