first and foremost

phrase

: at the most basic level

He is first and foremost a teacher.

Browse Nearby Words

first among equals

first and foremost

first and last

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“First and foremost.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/first%20and%20foremost. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.

Copy Citation

Popular in Grammar & Usage

More Words You Always Have to Look Up

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Democracy or Republic: What's the difference?

Popular in Wordplay

first and foremost

phrase

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

gambit

Popular in Grammar & Usage

More Words You Always Have to Look Up

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Democracy or Republic: What's the difference?

Popular in Wordplay

The Opposite of Déjà Vu

Was 'nervous Nellie' a Real Person?

Why do we call it a 'flea market'?

17 Words for Dog Breeds

Birds Say the Darndest Things

Popular

More Words You Always Have to Look Up

The Opposite of Déjà Vu

Was 'nervous Nellie' a Real Person?

Games & Quizzes