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first among equals

noun phrase

Definition of first among equals

: the leader of a group of people who is officially considered equal in rights and status to the other members of the group
  • As a director, he encourages collaboration and considers himself only (the) first among equals.

Word by Word Definitions

first play

  1. : preceding all others in time, order, or importance: such as

  2. : earliest

  3. : being the lowest forward gear or speed of a motor vehicle

  1. : before another in time, space, or importance

  2. : in the first place

  3. : for the first time

  1. : one that is number one in a series — see Table of Numbers

  2. : something that is first: such as

  3. : the first occurrence or item of a kind

See the full definition of first
among play

  1. : in or through the midst of : surrounded by

  2. : in company or association with

  3. : by or through the aggregate of

See the full definition of among
equal play equals

  1. : of the same measure, quantity, amount, or number as another

  2. : identical in mathematical value or logical denotation : equivalent

  3. : like in quality, nature, or status

  1. : one that is equal

  2. : an equal quantity

  1. : to be equal to

  2. : equalize

  3. : to make or produce something equal to

See the full definition of equal

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