at first

phrase

Synonyms of at first next

next

: at the beginning : initially

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of at first was in the 14th century

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Browse Nearby Words

at fault

at first

at first blush

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Cite this Entry

Style

“At first.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20first. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.

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Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

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