early bird
Meaning
A person who gets up or arrives early, often gaining an advantage by being first.
Origin
From the proverb “The early bird catches the worm,” recorded in English by the 17th century. The metaphor suggests that starting early brings opportunities or advantages.
Notes
Usually positive. Often used for people who arrive early, or in sales/booking contexts like “early-bird discount” meaning a deal for early purchasers.
Examples
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My sister is an early bird and finishes her workout before sunrise.
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If you want the best seats, be an early bird and get there when the doors open.
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As an early bird, he answers emails while most people are still asleep.
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I’m not an early bird, so 6 a.m. meetings are tough for me.
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The early bird catches the worm, so I started applying for jobs as soon as they were posted.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Typically used as a noun phrase: “an early bird,” “the early birds.” Common in compounds: “early-bird special/discount.” Also in the set phrase “early bird gets/catches the worm.”
Synonyms
- morning person
- early riser
- go-getter (context-dependent)
Antonyms
- latecomer
- night owl