premiere
UK[ˈpremieə(r)]US[prɪˈmɪr]
n
the first public performance of a film, play, or other work.
v
to give the first public performance of a film, play, or other work.
Morpheme Breakdown
premier
e
premier
first
e
noun/verb suffix
Etymology
the word 'premiere' entered english directly from french in the late 19th century, specifically from the feminine form of the adjective 'premier', meaning 'first'. the french term itself derives from latin 'primarius', meaning 'of the first rank, principal', which originates from 'primus', meaning 'first'. the core semantic link from the ancient root to the modern usage is clear: the concept of 'firstness'. the latin 'primus' is a descendant of the proto-indo-european root 'per-', meaning 'forward, through, in front', which also gives us english words like 'prime' and 'primary'. in its journey, the word evolved from a simple adjective denoting rank to a specialized noun and verb in the performing arts, encapsulating the significant 'first' public showing of a creative work.
Analysis
Structure: premier (first) + e (noun/verb suffix)
premier (from french, from latin 'primarius', meaning 'first, principal'); e (a french suffix often used to form nouns and verbs from adjectives, indicating the action or state).
Examples
the movie's london premiere was attended by the royal family.
the new play will premiere on broadway next month.
she wore a stunning gown to the film festival premiere.