first name

¹

noun

1. given name.

first-name

²

[furst-neym, furst-neym]

adjective

1. of or relating to one's first, or given, name; familiar; intimate.

   They were on a first-name basis soon after meeting.

verb (used with object)

first-named, first-naming 

1. to address (someone) by their first name, especially as a sign of informality or familiarity.

   The boss doesn't like the employees to first-name her.

first name

noun

1. Also called: Christian name.  forename.  given name. a name given to a person at birth, as opposed to a surname

Word History and Origins

Origin of first name¹

Middle English word dating back to 1200–50

Origin of first name²

First recorded in 1300–50

Example Sentences

"Commitment, fearlessness and determination mean he's easily one of the first names on the team sheet."

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"They hit us with sticks and called us 'slaves'," said Hussein, who asked to be identified only by his first name for fear of reprisal.

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"Unfortunately, we started late, and the robot isn't quite ready yet," said Mr. Azizi, who did not give his first name.

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Samuel Beckett and Samuel D. Hunter might seem to have little in common other than a first name.

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"There are 50 to 60 trucks, some with apples, others with pomegranates and grapes," said 25-year-old Gul, who only gave his first name.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• given name