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

Recent Examples on the Web On July Fourth, 15% of proceeds from any purchases will benefit the Robert Irvine Foundation, which supports the physical and mental well-being of military service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. Mike Snider, USA TODAY, 3 July 2024 The parade will launch at the corner of Union Avenue and Warren Street and will feature a lineup of marching bands, community groups, and first responders. Lizzy Alspach, Baltimore Sun, 1 July 2024 Pending board approval, money will also be disbursed to 14 community groups that support nonviolence initiatives, mental health concerns, and first responders, Mashek said. Kff Health News, The Mercury News, 28 June 2024 Assisting the sheriff's office are the U.S. Coast Guard and Oak Creek first responders. Drake Bentley, Journal Sentinel, 26 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for first responder 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'first responder.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1970, in the meaning defined above

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

Dictionary Entries Near first responder

Cite this Entry

“First responder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/first%20responder. Accessed 7 Jul. 2024.

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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