I. ˈfərst adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English fyrst; akin to Old High German furist first, Old English faran to go — more at fare
Date: before 12th century
: preceding all others in time, order, or importance: as
a. : earliest
b. : being the lowest forward gear or speed of a motor vehicle
c. : having the highest or most prominent part among a group of similar voices or instruments
first tenor
first violins
II. adverb
Date: before 12th century
1.
a. : before another in time, space, or importance
b. : in the first place — often used with of all
c. : for the first time
2. : in preference to something else : sooner
III. noun
Date: 13th century
1. — see number table
2. : something that is first: as
a. : the first occurrence or item of a kind
b. : the first forward gear or speed of a motor vehicle
c. : the highest or chief voice or instrument of a group
d. : an article of commerce of the finest grade
e. : the winning or highest place in a competition, examination, or contest
3. : first base
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- at first