first-string

[ furst-string ]

adjective

1. composed of regular members, participants, etc. ( substitute ):

   the first-string team.

2. foremost; main:

   the first-string critics.

first string

noun

1. the top player of a team in an individual sport, such as squash

adjective

1. being a regular member of a team rather than a substitute or reserve
2. being the top player of a team in an individual sport
3. of high rating; first-class

Other Words From

• first-stringer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of first-string¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

With the exception of Clint at left tackle, the line-up consisted of first-string players.

From Project Gutenberg

She had replaced many of her first-string men, but her captain was still in and so was the quarter-back who had started.

From Project Gutenberg

On Friday there was only signal work for the subs, but the first-string players and the second held scrimmage as usual.

From Project Gutenberg

Dont, added the coach, fool yourselves with the idea that if you get in trouble Ill put the first-string men in to pull you out.

From Project Gutenberg

The first-string men were given easy practice and faced the second for only ten minutes in scrimmage.

From Project Gutenberg