firststage
nounUK /ˈfɜːst steɪdʒ/
US /ˈfɜːrst steɪdʒ/
The first stage is the very first part of something that happens in steps.
The first stage of the rocket lifted off before the rest.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The first part of a rocket that separates and falls away after launch.
The first stage burned out and dropped into the ocean.
3. The earliest period of a process or project.
In the first stage of the plan, we just gather ideas.
4. The opening round of a competition.
She won her match in the first stage of the tournament.