first-string

American  

[furst-string] / ˈfɜrstˈstrɪŋ /

adjective

1. composed of regular members, participants, etc. (substitute ).

   the first-string team.

2. foremost; main.

   the first-string critics.

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first string British  

noun

1. the top player of a team in an individual sport, such as squash

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adjective

1. being a regular member of a team rather than a substitute or reserve

2. being the top player of a team in an individual sport

3. of high rating; first-class

Other Word Forms

• first-stringer noun

Etymology

Origin of first-string

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

The rest of the first-string offensive line included Julian Armella at right guard, Sam Yoon at center and Courtland Ford at left tackle.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 27, 2025

Moreover, regardless of the score, the first-string players almost always remain on the field.

From Salon • Oct. 1, 2023

So much so that, just as Dallas had done with its first-string goalie, Hakstol pulled Philipp Grubauer in favor of Martin Jones to start the third period.

From Seattle Times • May 9, 2023

Tucker will wrap up spring practice Saturday afternoon at Spartan Stadium, where fans will watch a 15-period practice that will include first-string offensive players scrimmaging against the team’s top defense.

From Washington Times • Apr. 14, 2023

He had made first-string on the freshman team, but even that didn’t seem to cheer Dad up much.

From "October Sky" by Homer Hickam