FIRST NAME Definition & Meaning

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first name

noun

given name.

first-name

[ adjective furst-neym; verb furst-neym ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

adjective

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.

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

a name given to a person at birth, as opposed to a surname Also calledChristian nameforenamegiven name

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51�Թ� History and Origins

Origin of first name¹

Middle English word dating back to 1200–50

Origin of first name²

First recorded in 1300–50

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

“It was not a good living situation,” Shanya, who is also using her first name only for privacy reasons, told Salon in a phone interview.

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“I got some results and then just ran with it,” Kenan, who is using his first name only for privacy reasons, told Salon in a phone interview.

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He gave his first name to avoid reprisals against his family.

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James Hawes, who directed “The Amateur,” praised the actor’s “enigmatic nature” and his ability to project simultaneous danger and charm: “He was the first name on the list for this role.”

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Dear Liz: I use my first name, maiden name and married last name as my legal name.

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