: being the preferred, standard, or first choice
first-line treatment of tuberculosis
compare second-line

Examples of first-line in a Sentence

surgery is usually not considered a first-line treatment for this type of cancer
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.
These odor receptors are the first-line sensors that detect odors in our environment, explains Dennis Mathew, a neuroscientist at the University of Nevada, Reno, who studies olfaction at the cellular and molecular levels. Avery Hurt, Discover Magazine, 27 June 2025 The study authors suggested that the AIO system could eventually be used as a first-line screening tool for early Parkinson’s detection, allowing for earlier treatment of the disease. Amy McGorry, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2025 It’s considered the first-line treatment for tic disorders. Kelly Burch Published, Verywell Health, 26 June 2025 Beyond The Blue Pill: Root-Cause Approaches While PDE5 inhibitors like sildenafil and tadalafil remain first-line interventions, today's most effective ED treatment protocols go far more in-depth. Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for first-line

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of first-line was in 1919

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Cite this Entry

“First-line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/first-line. Accessed 16 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

first-line

adjective
: being the preferred, standard, or first choice
first-line treatment of advanced breast cancer
compare second-line
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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