firsthand

adjective

first·​hand ˈfərst-ˈhand 

: obtained by, coming from, or being direct personal observation or experience

a firsthand account of the war

… had a firsthand view of the turmoil that wracked the region.

—William W. Finan, Jr.

firsthand adverb

Synonyms

• direct
• immediate
• primary
• unmediated

Examples of firsthand in a Sentence

He gave a firsthand account of the battle.

She draws on firsthand experiences for her novel.

Recent Examples on the Web

From networking events to highlighting new brands, Pitti offers attendees a firsthand look at emerging trends within the industry — and perhaps share in a couple aperitivi with friends over the course of the four-day event. —Brett F. Braley-Palko, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025

Banks can provide a firsthand look at demand for loans, credit card usage, credit quality as well as offer an outlook for how President-elect Donald Trump's policies may play out for the economy. —Medora Lee, USA TODAY, 15 Jan. 2025

Unlike traditional news outlets, social media platforms allow everyday individuals to share firsthand accounts, break down stories in real-time, and amplify underreported issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. —Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 10 Jan. 2025

For those seeking a firsthand experience, Patterson extends an invitation to contact him at 816.536.5693 or visit AdamsFarmKs.com. —Prime Development, Kansas City Star, 5 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1699, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

firsthand

adjective

first·​hand ˈfərst-ˈhand 

: coming directly from the original source

a firsthand account of the war

firsthand adverb