at first

phrase

Synonyms of at firstnext
: at the beginning : initially

Examples of at first in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Yet, paradoxically, these patterns can make the fabric a lot easier to style than at first glance. — Brett F. Braley-Palko, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026 Some of those deals have worked out well — trading Ferris and Hope brought in Michael Busch, their long-term answer at first base. — Sahadev Sharma, New York Times, 20 July 2026 That left runners at first and second, and Leody Taveras followed with an RBI single off Enyel De Los Santos (0-3). — ABC News, 18 July 2026 Federal prosecutors at first balked at the extension request. — Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News, 18 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for at first

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

Rhymes for at first

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Browse Nearby Words

at fault
at first
at first blush
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“At first.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20first. Accessed 27 Jul. 2026.

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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for at first

Nglish: Translation of at first for Spanish Speakers

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