first name: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral, but can shift to formal when requesting official information or informal when used in social contexts.
Quick answer
What does “first name” mean?
The name given to a person at birth or during a naming ceremony, which precedes the family name or surname.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The name given to a person at birth or during a naming ceremony, which precedes the family name or surname.
Informally, it can refer to a familiar or friendly mode of address, implying a close relationship. Can also be used in computational contexts to denote a data field.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. 'Given name' is a slightly more formal synonym used equally in both varieties. The structure 'first name' is dominant in both.
Connotations
Neutral in both. In UK contexts, 'Christian name' was historically common but is now considered dated and non-inclusive; 'first name' is the preferred neutral term.
Frequency
Extremely high frequency in both varieties, with 'first name' being the most common term.
Grammar
How to Use “first name” in a Sentence
Enter your [first name] in the box.We're on a [first-name] basis.His [first name] is David.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “first name” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- We have a very first-name culture here at the office.
- The form requires first-name information.
American English
- It's a first-name policy at the company.
- Please provide your first-name details.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used on forms, in email signatures, and to establish rapport ('Let's use first names').
Academic
Used in demographic studies, on application forms, and in author bylines.
Everyday
The most common context: introductions, filling out forms, social settings.
Technical
A data field in databases, user profiles, and registration systems.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “first name”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “first name”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “first name”
- Using 'name' ambiguously when 'first name' or 'full name' is required (e.g., 'Write your name' vs. 'Write your first name').
- Incorrect plural: 'first names' (correct) vs. 'first name' (uncountable for the concept).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, in modern usage they are synonyms. 'Given name' is slightly more formal and is the preferred term in legal and administrative contexts in some regions.
'First name' is your personal name (e.g., 'James'), while 'surname' (or 'last name'/'family name') is your shared family name (e.g., 'Smith'). In English, the order is typically first name then surname.
It is best avoided. 'Christian name' is historically specific to Christian cultures and is considered dated and potentially exclusive in multicultural contexts. 'First name' or 'given name' are the neutral, standard terms.
Common polite phrases include: 'May I have your first name, please?', 'What should I call you?', or simply 'What's your first name?' in informal settings.
The name given to a person at birth or during a naming ceremony, which precedes the family name or surname.
First name is usually neutral, but can shift to formal when requesting official information or informal when used in social contexts. in register.
First name: in British English it is pronounced /ˌfɜːst ˈneɪm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌfɜːrst ˈneɪm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “to be on first-name terms (with someone)”
- “a household first name”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the order on a form: FIRST you write your first name, THEN your last name.
Conceptual Metaphor
IDENTITY AS A LABEL (The first name is the primary personal label).
Practice
Quiz
Which phrase means to have a friendly, informal relationship with someone?