first

I. adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Old English fyrst; akin to Old High German furist first, Old English faran to go — more at fare Date: before 12th century preceding all others in time, order, or importance: as a. earliest b. being the lowest forward gear or speed of a motor vehicle c. having the highest or most prominent part among a group of similar voices or instruments <

first tenor

> <

first violins

> II. adverb Date: before 12th century 1. a. before another in time, space, or importance b. in the first place — often used with of all c. for the first time 2. in preference to something else ; sooner III. noun Date: 13th century 1. — see number table 2. something that is first: as a. the first occurrence or item of a kind b. the first forward gear or speed of a motor vehicle c. the highest or chief voice or instrument of a group d. an article of commerce of the finest grade e. the winning or highest place in a competition, examination, or contest 3. first base