FIRST FIDDLE Meaning and
Definition
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First fiddle is a colloquial phrase that originated from the world of music, more specifically, orchestras and string ensembles. It is used to describe someone who occupies the principal or lead role in a musical group, specifically those that use string instruments like violins. In this context, the term "first" refers to the highest-ranking position or the person with the leading responsibility, while "fiddle" is an informal term for a violin.
The phrase has since extended beyond the realm of music and entered everyday language, signifying someone who is in a position of power, authority, or leadership. It describes an individual who takes precedence or is considered the most prominent or influential in a particular situation, organization, or group. It may also refer to a person who is the most skilled, accomplished, or qualified in a particular field or domain.
The term "first fiddle" often implies a sense of expertise, competency, and confidence in one's abilities. It is often used in a figurative sense to describe someone who is at the forefront, leading the way, or calling the shots. Additionally, the phrase may also connote notions of control, influence, or dominance over others, suggesting that the person in question is the leading figure or has the highest level of authority in a given context.
Overall, "first fiddle" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a person who holds a position of leadership, importance, or prominence in a specific setting, drawing its origins from the musical world.
Common Misspellings for FIRST FIDDLE
- dirst fiddle
- cirst fiddle
- virst fiddle
- girst fiddle
- tirst fiddle
- rirst fiddle
- furst fiddle
- fjrst fiddle
- fkrst fiddle
- forst fiddle
- f9rst fiddle
- f8rst fiddle
- fiest fiddle
- fidst fiddle
- fifst fiddle
- fitst fiddle
- fi5st fiddle
- fi4st fiddle
- firat fiddle
- firzt fiddle
Etymology of FIRST FIDDLE
The expression "first fiddle" originated from the world of music, specifically from orchestras and string ensembles. The term "first fiddle" refers to the lead violinist or the concertmaster who occupies the first chair in the first violin section of an orchestra. The word "fiddle" is an informal term for violin, likely stemming from the Middle English term "fithel" and the Old English "fithele", which originally referred to various stringed instruments.
The word "first" in this context signifies the leading or primary position, as the "first fiddle" is responsible for setting the tone and playing the most prominent parts. This sense of hierarchy within the violin section likely emerged in the 17th or 18th century.
Idioms with the word FIRST FIDDLE
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play first fiddle
The idiom "play first fiddle" means to be in a position of leadership or importance, to have a prominent or leading role in a situation. It is often used to describe someone who is in charge or takes the lead in a particular situation or group.
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