Headfirst: meaning, definitions and examples

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headfirst

 

[ ˈhɛdˌfɜrst ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

physical action

Headfirst describes a way of moving or diving in which the head goes in first, followed by the rest of the body. This term is often used in activities such as swimming, where a person dives into the water headfirst, rather than with their feet leading. It can also refer to making quick or impulsive decisions without considering the consequences, similar to the expression 'going in headfirst' into a situation.

Synonyms

headlong, impulsive, precipitate

Examples of usage

  • She dove headfirst into the pool.
  • He jumped headfirst into the project without a plan.
  • They fell headfirst down the slide.

Translations

Translations of the word "headfirst" in other languages:

🇵🇹 de cabeça

🇮🇳 सिर के बल

🇩🇪 kopfüber

🇮🇩 kepala duluan

🇺🇦 з головою

🇵🇱 na głowie

🇯🇵 頭から

🇫🇷 la tête la première

🇪🇸 de cabeza

🇹🇷 baş aşağı

🇰🇷 머리 먼저

🇸🇦 رأسًا

🇨🇿 hlavou napřed

🇸🇰 hlavou napred

🇨🇳 头朝下

🇸🇮 s glavo naprej

🇮🇸 höfuð fyrst

🇰🇿 баспен

🇬🇪 თავით წინ

🇦🇿 başla

🇲🇽 de cabeza

Etymology

The term 'headfirst' dates back to the early 15th century and is derived from the combination of 'head,' referring to the uppermost part of the body, and 'first,' indicating precedence or the foremost position. Together, they convey the idea of the head entering a space before the rest of the body. This compound word reflects both literal and figurative meanings, often illustrating the act of plunging into something directly or without hesitation. In various contexts, such as sports or decision-making, 'headfirst' emphasizes readiness and a bold approach, thus establishing its relevance in contemporary language.