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.
The firstborn son of Jon Voight and the late actress Marcheline Bertrand, Haven shares Jolie’s passion for film, human rights and family. — Jessica Sager, PEOPLE, 7 Aug. 2026 Tiffany reports that the intrepid young Vickie, Martin’s firstborn and co-investigator, had a ready explanation for her mother’s surprising equanimity in the face of public scorn. — Jessica Winter, New Yorker, 6 Aug. 2026 Wise will play Anaya Clarke-Reagan, the Clarke family’s firstborn. — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 6 Aug. 2026 When Mabel turned 13 in 2025, Heming Willis made a birthday tribute post on her Instagram celebrating her firstborn. — Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 6 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for firstborn

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Browse Nearby Words

first border
firstborn
first bottom
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Cite this Entry

“Firstborn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firstborn. Accessed 18 Aug. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of firstborn for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about firstborn

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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