The first offspring of an animal; a firstborn creature, often with special significance in agriculture or animal husbandry traditions.
From 'first' + '-ling' (Old English diminutive suffix creating nouns for young creatures, as in duckling, gosling). Emerged in Middle English pastoral contexts.
In traditional farming cultures, firstlings held mystical significance—the first lamb born in spring might be marked for specific rituals or ceremonial purposes.
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