on a first-name basis
phrase
US
: having a close personal relationship where each person addresses the other by their first name
He was on a first-name basis with his boss.
They know most of the officials on a first-name basis.
—sometimes used figuratively to describe something that one is familiar with or accustomed toShe was on a first-name basis with adversity.
Cite this Entry
“On a first-name basis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20a%20first-name%20basis. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.
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