first quarter

American  

noun

Astronomy.

1. the instant, approximately one week after a new moon, when one half of the moon's disk is illuminated by the sun.

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first quarter British  

noun

1. one of the four principal phases of the moon, occurring between new moon and full moon, when half of the lighted surface is visible from earth Compare last quarter

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Etymology

Origin of first quarter

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Non-fuel unit costs in the first quarter are expected to be up mid-single digits due to lower capacity and higher operating costs.

From The Wall Street Journal

The company said it would report its performance based on the new structure starting from the first quarter.

From The Wall Street Journal

The homebuilder’s revenue fell 13% in the first quarter as a tough housing market has resulted in lower average home sale prices.

From The Wall Street Journal

Earlier this month, OpenAI announced it would delay the launch of adult mode, previously slated for the first quarter, saying it was prioritizing other products.

From The Wall Street Journal

She made a half-court shot at the end of the first quarter.

From Los Angeles Times