first responder

noun

: a person (such as a police officer or an EMT) who is among those responsible for going immediately to the scene of an accident or emergency to provide assistance

Examples of first responder in a Sentence

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The data reinforces the stark need for action along these lines, as do the tragic stories of far too many first responders who have made significant sacrifices for their communities and are met with newfound dangers for their troubles. — Sen. Saud Anwar, Hartford Courant, 25 Aug. 2026 At least seven people were injured in the fire, including four civilians and three first responders, according to Richard Edwards, chief of the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District. — Christopher Cann, USA Today, 25 Aug. 2026 At least seven people, including three first responders, have been injured in the blaze, officials said. — Bill Hutchinson, ABC News, 25 Aug. 2026 The Minneapolis police report outlines the response of more than 150 first responders, detailing their movements and actions throughout the day, including locating the 23-year-old suspect, treating victims and clearing rooms inside the church. — Beret Leone, CBS News, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for first responder

Word History

First Known Use

1970, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of first responder was in 1970

Rhymes for first responder

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Browse Nearby Words

first reading
first responder
first-run
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Cite this Entry

“First responder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/first%20responder. Accessed 30 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

first responder

noun
first re·​spond·​er
-ri-ˈspän-dər
: a person (as a police officer or an EMT) who is among those responsible for going immediately to the scene of an accident or emergency to provide assistance
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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