# eldest

/ˈɛɫdəst/ (US) · /ˈɛldəst/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/eldest
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 2. the first-born person

noun · CEFR B2

the child who was born first in a family.

For teachers: the individual possessing the greatest seniority by birth within a family unit.

- As the eldest, she often had to look after her younger brothers.
- The inheritance was traditionally reserved for the eldest, a custom that frequently created friction among the younger siblings.

Usage: Often functions as a substantive noun preceded by 'the'.

## Examples

- As the eldest, she often looked after her younger brothers.
- The inheritance was traditionally passed down to the eldest, though modern laws have changed these family customs.
- While the younger children were free to pursue artistic careers, the eldest felt a heavy burden of responsibility to manage the family's struggling farm.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.