Obs. rare. [f. as prec. + -NESS.] The quality or state of being first.
1626. W. Sclater, Expos. 2 Thess. (1629), 106. First, Intends the Apostle this firstnesse, or precedence of Apostasie, to the day of Christ?
1659. Hammond, Dispatcher Disp., Pref. Wks. 1660, II. 163. When I give … a firstness of Precedency and Presidency to the Pope.
1675. Brooks, Gold. Key, Wks. 1867, V. 183. Oh! the firstness, the freeness, the unchangeableness, the greatness, the matchlessness of Christ’s love to fallen man, in becoming man!
