first night

noun

1. opening night.

first night

noun

1. 1. the first public performance of a play or other production
   2. ( as modifier )

      first-night nerves

Word History and Origins

Origin of first night¹

First recorded in 1705–15

Example Sentences

In this episode of the FiveThirtyEight Politics podcast, the crew gives their overall impressions of the first night of this year’s Republican National Convention.

From FiveThirtyEight

Marguerite was always present at every first night, and passed every evening either at the theatre or the ball.

From Project Gutenberg

It was Jenny's sympathy on this first night, when awakened by Ruth's irrepressible agony, that had made the bond between them.

From Project Gutenberg

Every one naturally objected to the trees, and the ridge of the roof was no more inviting than on the first night.

From Project Gutenberg

But on the first night, Barrent did not go through the door.

From Project Gutenberg

Dinah, who had never been at a first night's performance, was very full of natural curiosity.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• beginning
• debut
• opening