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Glite Dictionary
First State

First State

1 3.2
The U.S. state Delaware that first approved the U.S. Constitution
  • proper noun
translation icon : Primer Estado
  • Many people consider Delaware the First State because it was the first to ratify the U.S. Constitution in 1787.

Examples

  • Delaware is known as the First State.

  • When asked about his favorite state, he proudly mentioned that Delaware is the First State in American history.

  • Delaware is often called the First State because it was the first to join the Union.

  • The nickname First State is proudly displayed on Delaware's license plates.

  • Tourists visiting the First State enjoy its historic towns and beautiful beaches.

  • Did you know that Delaware is the First State?

  • If you're traveling on the East Coast, don't miss the chance to explore the First State, known for its rich history and beautiful beaches.

Synonyms

DE
vsFirst State
  • US
843 1.0

A short form for the US state Delaware

is an informal nickname highlighting the state's early ratification of the U.S. Constitution
Delaware
vsFirst State
119 1.6

A small state in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States with capital Dover

is an informal nickname referring to being the first to ratify the U.S. Constitution
Diamond State
vsFirst State
3.9

A nickname for the United States state of Delaware

refers specifically to being the first to ratify the U.S. Constitution
Del.
vsFirst State
3.4

A short form for the US state Delaware

is an informal nickname focusing on being the first to ratify the U.S. Constitution

Surface Forms

First State main

Morphology

first + state

The phrase directly composes 'first' + 'state' to mean the state that is first in order (i.e., the earliest or primary state), so its basic sense is immediately derivable from the constituents. Identifying that this nickname refers specifically to Delaware requires cultural knowledge, but the compositional meaning itself is transparent to a learner who knows the words.

Etymology

The nickname First State comes from Delaware being the very first state to approve the U.S. Constitution. So, the name reminds people that Delaware was 'first' to join the United States and that's why it is used as a nickname today.