Emily Dickinson Lexicon

FIRST, adv. [furst.]

1. Before any thing else in the order of time. Adam was first formed, then Eve. 1 Tim. ii.
2. Before all others in place or progression. Let the officers enter the gate first.
3. Before any thing else in order of proceeding or consideration. First, let us attend to the examination of the witnesses.
4. Before all others in rank. He stands or ranks first in public estimation. At first, at the first, at the beginning or origin. First or last, at one time or another; at the beginning or end. And all are fools and lovers first or last. Dryden.