first reading

noun

: the first submitting of a bill before a quorum of a legislative assembly usually by title or number only

Examples of first reading 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.
Although the council approved the stimulus payments on first reading Tuesday evening, a final vote is scheduled for March 10. Verónica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 25 Feb. 2026 The City Council on Monday night unanimously approved a retail tobacco licensure ordinance on first reading. John Aguilar, Denver Post, 24 Feb. 2026 What was your reaction when upon your first reading of Toni Morrison’s work? Literary Hub, 17 Feb. 2026 As the Register reported, the council approved 3-2 on January 20 the first reading of an ordinance that would require stores to have a staff member for every three self-checkout lanes. The Editorial Board, Oc Register, 28 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for first reading

Word History

First Known Use

1571, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of first reading was in 1571

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“First reading.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/first%20reading. Accessed 1 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster