: 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.
In 2019, a typical first-line factory supervisor with a $63,000 annual salary could have afforded the average house in Greenfield, their research found. Genevieve Redsten, Journal Sentinel, 14 Nov. 2024 From being a first-line manager to a VP, SVP and general manager, each role required different leadership skills—many of which have similarities to sports leadership. Lorrissa Horton, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024 The first-line treatment option for flu during pregnancy typically is an antiviral medication, such as Tamiflu (oseltamivir). Laura Dorwart, Verywell Health, 24 Oct. 2024 Creating a better sleep environment: Going to bed at the same time every night and keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet are often the first-line ways to improve sleep. Carley Millhone, Health, 10 Oct. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near first-line

Cite this Entry

“First-line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/first-line. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

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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