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
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The former bodybuilder chose the name Equanimeous for his firstborn based on a character from a friend’s book. Nasha Smith, PEOPLE, 22 Sep. 2025 Her firstborn, Sewell Setzer III died by suicide in 2024 at age 14 after an extended virtual relationship with a Character. Rhitu Chatterjee, NPR, 19 Sep. 2025 All new parents know that precious moments with your firstborn come in dribs and drabs and then in a torrent. Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 18 Sep. 2025 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 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 30 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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