first offender

American  

noun

1. a person convicted of an offense of law for the first time.

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first offender British  

noun

1. a person convicted of any criminal offence for the first time

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Etymology

Origin of first offender

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Prior to the crime, the first offender obtained a software application which altered images using AI.

From BBC

"This is a first offender and I wouldn't want him to be a hardened criminal at this young age. He's only 15 now."

From BBC

Defence solicitor advocate Iain Paterson told the court his client was a first offender.

From BBC

They were also allowed to plead guilty under Georgia’s first offender law, meaning that if they complete their probation without violating the terms or committing another crime, their records will be wiped clean.

From Washington Times

All three lawyers pleaded guilty under Georgia’s “first offender” law, which allows them to wipe the offenses from their permanent record if they comply with the terms of their sentences.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• delinquent
• gangster
• hoodlum
• hooligan
• troublemaker