first reading

noun

: the first submitting of a bill before a quorum of a legislative assembly usually by title or number only

Examples of first reading in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Mayor Michael Glotz said because of the opposition, the proposal was only moved past first reading Tuesday instead of being fully approved, in order to give residents multiple chances to comment. Addison Wright, Chicago Tribune, 21 Jan. 2026 The policy, introduced as a first reading, outlines how the district provides mental health education, training, and services on campus. Nina Burns, CBS News, 21 Jan. 2026 My first reading of The Blind Owl was a complete disappointment. Amir Ahmadi Arian, The Dial, 15 Jan. 2026 After the commission votes on Tuesday, the proposal will return to San Marcos City Council for a first reading and vote in February. Karoline Leonard, Austin American Statesman, 9 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for first reading

Word History

First Known Use

1571, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of first reading was in 1571

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Cite this Entry

“First reading.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/first%20reading. Accessed 1 Feb. 2026.

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