'client-first' originates from the English words 'client' and 'first', where 'client' refers to a person or organization using the services of a professional person or company, and 'first' indicates priority or precedence.

The term 'client-first' evolved from the business practice of prioritizing client needs, which became more prominent in the late 20th century as companies shifted focus from product-centric to customer-centric models.

Initially, it meant prioritizing client needs in business dealings, and this meaning has remained consistent in modern usage.