pierwsi

Pierwsi is a Polish adjective meaning “the first,” and in its plural form pierwsi is used to refer to the first people or elements in a given group. In standard usage, it typically accompanies a noun, as in pierwsi mieszkańcy (the first inhabitants) or pierwsi osadnicy (the first settlers). It can also function as a semi-substantive expression to denote the people or things who come first in a particular context, though it usually remains tied to another word that specifies the group.

Etymology and form: pierwsi derives from the base word pierwszy (first). The form pierwsi is the plural, masculine personal form used with masculine personal or mixed-gender groups in Polish. Polish grammars distinguish this from other plural forms like pierwsze, which may appear with feminine or neuter references. The root pier- is related to similar Slavic roots in languages such as Russian and Czech that convey primacy or order.

Usage and contexts: The term is common in historical, archaeological, sociological, and literary contexts. It often appears in phrases such as pierwsi mieszkańcy, pierwsi chrześcijanie, or pierwsi użytkownicy, where it marks primacy or early occurrence. In cultural or narrative works, pierwsi can be used more loosely to describe pioneers, founders, or early adopters within a community or field.

Notes: Pierwsi is not typically a proper noun or a fixed title, but it may appear in headings or slogans in a way that personifies a group as “the first.” See also related terms such as pierwszy (the first), wczesny (early), and początkowy (initial).