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

At least 10 new laws will be introduced in the Sunshine State at the start of the year, including measures to restrict social media use for children, protect first responders on duty, and reform the management of dental insurance claims. —Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 1 Jan. 2025

Please join Sharon [his wife] and I in praying for all the victims and first responders on scene. —Phil Boucher, People.com, 1 Jan. 2025

Adding an emergency contact allows first responders to use the information to reach family or friends more quickly in the event of a car crash or medical emergency, for example. —Hope Karnopp, Journal Sentinel, 31 Dec. 2024

Nunn campaigned on protecting free speech and the Second Amendment, promoting economic growth by eliminating the state income tax and supporting law enforcement and first responders. —Hannah Pinski, The Courier-Journal, 31 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1970, in the meaning defined above

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