first fruits

plural noun

1. the earliest fruit of the season.
2. the first products or results of anything.

first fruits

plural noun

1. the first results, products, or profits of an undertaking
2. fruit that ripens first

Word History and Origins

Origin of first fruits¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Example Sentences

It was within a week of our engagement, so that I had not to wait long for these first-fruits of my extraordinary position.

From Project Gutenberg

They were the first-fruits offered to the Son of God after his incarnation, and their blood the first that flowed on his account.

From Project Gutenberg

May I now, therefore, Illustrious Prince, presume to lay the first-fruits of my juvenile labors at the foot of your throne?

From Project Gutenberg

Alas, the first-fruits of my acquaintance with the Philanthus promised me more than the future held in store for me!

From Project Gutenberg

Perhaps it refers to his claiming for himself the first-fruits due to the gods, a legend mentioned by Macrobius.

From Project Gutenberg