first-generation

UK: ˌfɜːst dʒenəˈreɪʃn̩ | US: ˌfɜːrst dʒenəˈreɪʃn̩

Definition

  1. adj. belonging to the first group of people or things to do or experience something

  2. adj. being the first in a family to be born in a particular country or to attend college

Structure
first <initial>generation <production>
Etymology

The term combines "first," from Old English fyrst (foremost in time or rank), and "generation," from Latin generatio (a begetting or producing). The hyphenated form emerged in the early 20th century to describe pioneering groups (e.g., immigrants, technology). The logic reflects a linear sequence: "first" marks priority, while "generation" contextualizes it within a cycle of creation or lineage.

Examples

  1. She is a first-generation college student in her family.

  2. The first-generation iPhone revolutionized mobile technology.

  3. Many first-generation immigrants face unique cultural challenges.

  4. This car model is a first-generation hybrid with limited features.

  5. His parents were first-generation Americans from Italy.