Pronunciation: [fˈɜːstfʊt] (IPA) 
Firstfoot is a Scots word that refers to the act of being the first person to step into a home on New Year's Day. The word is pronounced /fɜːstfʊt/ and is spelled with the letters 'f-i-r-s-t' and 'f-o-o-t'. The 'f' sound in 'first' is followed by a schwa sound, and the 'oo' in 'foot' is pronounced as the long 'u' sound. The spelling of firstfoot is consistent with the traditional spelling conventions of the Scots language.
The term "firstfoot" refers to a traditional Scottish custom and is predominantly associated with Hogmanay, which is the celebration of the New Year in Scotland. "Firstfoot" can be used as both a noun and a verb, depending on the context.
As a noun, "firstfoot" represents the person who enters a household after midnight on New Year's Eve, being the first person to step inside the home in the New Year. It is believed that the character of the firstfoot can influence the luck and prosperity of the household for the upcoming year. Traditionally, the perfect firstfoot is a dark-haired male, tall, and bearing gifts such as whiskey, coal, or shortbread. Their visit is met with joyful celebrations, including food, drinks, and music.
As a verb, "firstfoot" pertains to the action of being the first person to enter a house after midnight to bring good fortune for the New Year. This verb encapsulates the act of participating in the Scottish tradition and playing the role of the "firstfoot."
Overall, "firstfoot" refers to the individual who initiates the New Year celebrations by entering a household after the stroke of midnight, symbolizing a new beginning and fostering good luck for the year ahead.
The word "firstfoot" originates from Scotland and is primarily used in the context of Hogmanay, the Scottish New Year's celebration. It refers to the practice of being the first person to enter someone's home after midnight on New Year's Eve to bring good luck for the coming year.
The etymology of "firstfoot" is a combination of two words: "first" and "foot". "First" simply means the initial or earliest in time or order. "Foot" refers to the act of stepping or entering a place. Together, "firstfoot" essentially means the act of being the first person to step into or enter a place, specifically for the purpose of bringing New Year's luck.
