first aid

noun

: emergency care or treatment given to an ill or injured person before regular medical aid can be obtained

Examples of first aid in a Sentence

She gave him first aid for his sprained ankle.
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.
Coming prepared with a small, compact first aid kit can prevent a minor issue from turning into a major hassle; these essentials don't take up much room, and having them on hand saves you from scrambling to find a pharmacy in an unfamiliar place. Alesandra Dubin, Travel + Leisure, 6 Oct. 2025 My group may have become lax over the years with carrying first aid, extra clothing, and planning for the worst. Madison Dapcevich, Outside, 6 Oct. 2025 After he was shot, ICE officers administered first aid until emergency medical services arrived to take him to Parkland Hospital, according to the statement. Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Oct. 2025 Officers gave Steinbach first aid and took him to a waiting ambulance. Michelle Cruz, AZCentral.com, 29 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for first aid

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of first aid was in 1867

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“First aid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/first%20aid. Accessed 13 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

first aid

noun
: emergency treatment given to an ill or injured person

Medical Definition

first aid

noun
: emergency care or treatment given to an ill or injured person before regular medical aid can be obtained

More from Merriam-Webster on first aid

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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