first down
Americannoun
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the first of four consecutive plays during which an offensive team must advance the ball at least ten yards to retain possession of it.
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a gain of ten or more yards by an offensive team that entitles it to continued possession for a new series of downs.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The Braves didn’t get a first down until 7:35 left in the second quarter.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 22, 2026
He’s always ready to show off first down for Friars.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 17, 2026
The move came after the stock’s first down day ever as shares dropped 5% Wednesday, closing at $191.82.
From Barron's ● Jun. 19, 2026
The early move came after the stock’s first down day ever.
From Barron's ● Jun. 18, 2026
He cut up the middle and broke past several tacklers for an eight-yard gain and a first down.
From "Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, And A Dream" by H.G. Bissinger
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
