firstborn

adjective

first·​born ˈfərs(t)-ˈbȯrn How to pronounce firstborn (audio)
: first brought forth : eldest
firstborn noun

Examples of firstborn 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.
As the firstborn son of his generation, Alessio has always understood that the future of the family business would one day rest on his shoulders. Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025 But even after expanding her own family, Maynard never forgot about her firstborn. Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 27 Aug. 2025 Esau is a hunter and a warrior who carries the weight of expectation placed on the firstborn son. Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 21 Aug. 2025 My friend Jason is getting ready to drop off his daughter, his firstborn child, at college. Heidi Stevens, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for firstborn

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of firstborn was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Firstborn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firstborn. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

firstborn

adjective
first·​born ˈfərs(t)-ˈbȯ(ə)rn How to pronounce firstborn (audio)
: born first : eldest
firstborn noun

More from Merriam-Webster on firstborn

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