1. the first agricultural products of a season, especially when offered to God or used ceremonially
Usage: biblical; religious
2. the first results or early benefits of an effort or investment
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The ancient Israelites offered their firstfruits at the temple.
• Farmers traditionally celebrated the firstfruits of their harvest.
• The new research program is already showing its firstfruits.
• These early sales are just the firstfruits of our marketing campaign.
• The scholarship recipients represent the firstfruits of the educational reform.
• We’re seeing the firstfruits of years of careful planning.