first lieutenant

noun

, Military.

1. an officer ranking next above second lieutenant and next below a captain.

first lieutenant

noun

1. the officer responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of a warship, esp the executive officer of a smaller ship in the Royal Navy
2. an officer holding commissioned rank in the US Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, or in certain other forces, senior to a second lieutenant and junior to a captain

Word History and Origins

Origin of first lieutenant¹

First recorded in 1775–85

Example Sentences

In a few minutes the first-lieutenant reappeared, with one or two others of the gun-room mess, who greeted him most cordially.

From Project Gutenberg

“Silence there, fore and aft—every man to his station,” cried the first-lieutenant, through his speaking trumpet.

From Project Gutenberg

“Gather in on the lee main-tack, my lads,” said the first-lieutenant, going to the lee gangway to see the duty performed.

From Project Gutenberg

I thank you, sir,” replied the first-lieutenant, seriously; “you will excuse me: it is time to beat to quarters.

From Project Gutenberg

Captain Carrington thanked Newton for his assistance, and acknowledged his error to the first-lieutenant.

From Project Gutenberg