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
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His firstborn son was no stranger to this form of soccer as well. — Miami Herald, 16 June 2026 The first signs that their firstborn son was different came early. — Quanta Magazine, 8 June 2026 Studies have shown that up to ten per cent of first-time mothers die in childbirth, as do more than sixty per cent of firstborn cubs. — Elizabeth Kolbert, New Yorker, 22 June 2026 They are born to parents who are generally wealthier and more experienced than when the firstborn arrived. — Michael J. Coren, Washington Post, 9 June 2026 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

Rhymes for firstborn

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Browse Nearby Words

first border
firstborn
first bottom
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Cite this Entry

“Firstborn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firstborn. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of firstborn for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about firstborn

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