first aid

noun

: emergency care or treatment given to an ill or injured person before regular medical aid can be obtained

Examples of first aid in a Sentence

She gave him first aid for his sprained ankle.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Lifeguards have to pass an assortment of strength, agility, speed and first aid exams. — Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 6 Aug. 2026 Most simple first aid kits include bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, and emergency supplies in a little kit that fits easily in a daypack. — Gentry Hale, Travel + Leisure, 4 Aug. 2026 There are several other reputable pet first aid courses available online as well. — Cathy M. Rosenthal, Chicago Tribune, 1 Aug. 2026 Officers rendered first aid, but one of the victims died from their injuries, and the other was taken to the hospital in stable condition. — Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 1 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for first aid

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of first aid was in 1867

Rhymes for first aid

See All Rhymes for first aid

Browse Nearby Words

first
first aid
first-aider
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Cite this Entry

“First aid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/first%20aid. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

first aid

noun
: emergency treatment given to an ill or injured person

Medical Definition

first aid

noun
ˌfərst-ˈād How to pronounce first aid (audio)
: emergency care or treatment given to an ill or injured person before regular medical aid can be obtained

More from Merriam-Webster on first aid

Nglish: Translation of first aid for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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