The term 'company-first' is a modern English compound word, combining 'company' from Middle English 'compaignie' meaning 'society, friendship, intimacy' and 'first' from Old English 'fyrst' meaning 'foremost, leading'.

'Company' evolved from the Old French 'compaignie', while 'first' has remained relatively unchanged from its Old English roots.

Initially, 'company' referred to a group of people, but in modern usage, it often refers to a business entity. 'First' has consistently meant 'foremost' or 'leading'.