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Erst: meaning, definitions and examples

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erst

 

[ ɜːrst ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

ordinal indicator

The term 'erst' is an archaic term meaning first. It is often used to refer to something that occurred previously or relates to an earlier time. While not commonly used in modern English, it may still be encountered in historical texts or literature. Its utility lies in its traditional usage, often in poetic or rhetorical contexts.

Synonyms

earlier, first, previous

Examples of usage

  • Erst we meet under different circumstances.
  • In the erst days of the kingdom, times were simpler.
  • The erstwhile glory of the past is a subject of nostalgia.

Translations

Translations of the word "erst" in other languages:

🇵🇹 primeiro

🇮🇳 पहला

🇩🇪 erste

🇮🇩 pertama

🇺🇦 перший

🇵🇱 pierwszy

🇯🇵 最初の (saisho no)

🇫🇷 premier

🇪🇸 primero

🇹🇷 birinci

🇰🇷 첫 번째 (cheot beonjjae)

🇸🇦 الأول (al-awwal)

🇨🇿 první

🇸🇰 prvý

🇨🇳 第一 (dì yī)

🇸🇮 prvi

🇮🇸 fyrsti

🇰🇿 бірінші

🇬🇪 პირველი (pirveli)

🇦🇿 birinci

🇲🇽 primero

Word origin

The word 'erst' originates from Old English, where it was used as 'ærest', meaning 'first' or 'earliest'. This term is derived from the Proto-Germanic word '*airistas', which also means 'first', indicating an ancestral trait of indicating precedence or priority. Over time, 'erst' began to be associated with earlier times or occurrences, often emphasizing the notion of something that has passed. While it has largely fallen out of common use in modern English, it can still be found in certain dialects or in literary contexts where historical or poetic language is appreciated. The influence of 'erst' can also be seen in the modern word 'earliest', which continues to carry the essence of its original meaning.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,793, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.