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.
The Norwegian Constitution was altered in 1990 to allow the firstborn, regardless of gender, to take precedence in the line of succession. — CBS News, 28 Aug. 2026 After her coffin was lowered into the grave and coral stones were arranged on top, her firstborn son, aged 5, was led to it and wailed. — ABC News, 26 Aug. 2026 During their March 2021 sit-down with Oprah Winfrey, Meghan made allegations about concerns within the royal family over the skin color of her firstborn son, Archie. — Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 20 Aug. 2026 Liechtenstein’s royal house has ended centuries of male-only succession, moving to absolute primogeniture so future firstborn daughters can inherit the Alpine principality’s throne. — Geir Moulson, Los Angeles Times, 15 Aug. 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 4 Sep. 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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about firstborn

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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