The award given to the person who, or animal or thing which, comes first in a race, sporting contest, etc., or wins a competition based on merit, skill, or excellence in a particular field; (also) the prize of greatest value offered in a lottery, raffle, or similar competition.
Origin
Mid 16th century.
Definition of first prize in US English:
first prize
noun
The award given to the person who, or animal or thing which, comes first in a race, sporting contest, etc., or wins a competition based on merit, skill, or excellence in a particular field; (also) the prize of greatest value offered in a lottery, raffle, or similar competition.