first base

American  

noun

1. Baseball.

   1. the first in counterclockwise order of the bases from home plate.

   2. the position of the player covering the area of the infield near first base.

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idioms

1. get to first base,

   1. to succeed in the initial phase of a plan or undertaking.

      His suggestions for labor-saving techniques never got to first base.

   2. to engage in petting that goes no further than kissing.

first base British  

noun

1. baseball

   1. the base that a runner must reach safely to score a hit, and the first of the three bases he must reach safely on the way to home plate in order to score a run

   2. the fielding position nearest this base

2. informal to accomplish the first step of an undertaking

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Etymology

Origin of first base

An Americanism dating back to 1835–45

Example Sentences

The Rockies also struck out 17 times and committed three errors, including one by Cron at first base.

From Washington Times

One of the less-talked-about rule changes implemented this season limits pitchers to two disengagements from the pitching rubber — taking their foot off, basically — per plate appearance with a runner on first base.

From Washington Post

But Munoz got his first save of the season, coaxing a ground ball to France at first base to end the game.

From Seattle Times

Fried allowed one run before departing with what Atlanta said was left hamstring discomfort after wincing as he ran to cover first base for the initial out of the fourth inning.

From Washington Times

Fried allowed one run before departing with what Atlanta said was left hamstring discomfort after wincing as he he ran to cover first base for the initial out of the fourth inning.

From Seattle Times