at first

phrase

Synonyms of at firstnext
: at the beginning : initially

Examples of at first in a Sentence

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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.
Sal Frelick robbed Freddie Freeman of a double with a nice running catch in the right center field gap, but an error on a pickoff attempt at first base brought Edman in to score. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 13 Oct. 2026 The story’s pivotal event is the police shooting of a white teen-ager; a coverup ensues, in which Jonson, at first, participates. — The New Yorker, New Yorker, 12 Oct. 2026 That play still was seared into their collective memory when Dodgers left-hander Alex Vesia picked off Jake Bauers at first base. — Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 12 Oct. 2026 Mercury in your 7th House quincunxes Saturn in your private 12th, making relationships, conversations, and unspoken needs harder to read at first. — Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for at first

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of at first was in the 14th century

Rhymes for at first

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Browse Nearby Words

at fault
at first
at first blush
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Cite this Entry

“At first.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20first. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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