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.
Finally, God had no choice but to intend to kill the firstborn of both man and beast. Holly Rizzuto Palker, Parents, 27 Mar. 2025 In a video posted to Instagram Thursday (March 20), the British singer-songwriter told the story of how the firstborn daughter of Kim Kardashian and Ye (formerly Kanye West) ended up on the album, which dropped in January. Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 21 Mar. 2025 Will and his wife, Viveca Paulin, who also share sons Mattias and Axel, gave their firstborn a Scandinavian name as a nod to his mother’s Swedish heritage. Jane Lacroix, People.com, 8 Mar. 2025 The 25-year-old gave birth to her daughter and firstborn at six months. Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 3 Mar. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Firstborn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firstborn. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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