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What are first words?

What Are First Words?

First words are the very first meaningful words your baby understands and eventually says. They are usually simple, everyday words linked to things your child sees, hears, or experiences often.

For parents, first words can feel exciting and sometimes a little nerve-wracking.
The good news is that first words develop gradually, and there is a wide range of what is completely normal.

This page explains what first words really are, when they typically appear, and how you can gently support early language at home.

What do we mean by “first words”?

First words are recognisable words with meaning, not just sounds or babble.
They might not sound perfect at first. That is expected.

For example:
“Ba” for ball.
“Da” for daddy.
“Muh” for milk.

What matters is that your child uses the sound consistently and with intention.

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When do babies start learning first words?

Babies begin learning words long before they say them.

Understanding usually comes first.

Typical early word timeline (very flexible):

0–6 months
Listening, watching faces, responding to tone.
6–9 months
Babbling, copying sounds, responding to their name.
9–12 months
Understanding familiar words like “no”, “bye”, or “milk”.
12–18 months
Saying first recognisable words.
18–24 months
Vocabulary grows quickly, often 20–50+ words.

Some children speak earlier, some later. Both can be completely normal.

What kinds of words come first?

Early words are usually functional and familiar.

They relate to your child’s daily life and routines.

Common first word categories:

People: mummy, daddy, nana.
Everyday objects: ball, cup, shoe.
Animals: dog, cat, duck.
Actions: up, go, eat.
Social words: hi, bye, no.

This is why first word books often focus on simple nouns and clear pictures.

Do first words have to be spoken?

No. Communication comes in many forms.

First words can include:

Spoken words.
Approximations (“wa” for water).
Consistent sounds paired with gestures.
Signs (such as baby sign language).

All of these count as early language development.

Why repetition matters so much!

Children learn words through repetition in context.

Seeing the same word again and again helps their brain make connections.

Simple routines help:

Naming objects during play.
Reading the same book repeatedly.
Pointing and saying the word clearly.
Pausing to give your child time to respond.

You do not need flashcards or drills. Everyday moments are enough.

How first word books support learning.

Good first word books:

Use clear, realistic illustrations.
Show one main object per page.
Repeat words naturally.
Encourage pointing and interaction.
Reading together also builds attention, bonding, and listening skills, not just vocabulary.

If you would like to explore how books fit into early language, our First Words Learning pillar page explains this in more detail.