first edition

noun

1. the whole number of copies of a literary work printed first, from the same type, and issued together.

2. an individual copy from this number.

3. the first printing of a newspaper for a given date.

Word History and Origins

Origin of first edition¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

The full interview can be heard on the first edition of The Saturday Show from 10:15.

From BBC

An "astonishingly rare" first edition of The Hobbit has sold for a "record-breaking" £43,000 at auction.

From BBC

Ms Riley said the book is in "absolutely beautiful condition" and she believed it sold for a record price for a first edition without a dustcover.

From BBC

"It's the connection to Tolkien and the important provenance that makes this book so special. It's not just any first edition; it belonged to someone who very likely called Tolkien an acquaintance," Ms Riley said.

From BBC

She added it was astonishingly rare to find a first edition in such good condition.

From BBC