Phrase guide

first dibs

noun · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

noun

Meaning 1

The first choice, a preference (on something).

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: uncountable

Examples

  • The boss insisted on having first dibs on the best parking space.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From dibs (“the right to use something before anyone else”); see further etymology there.