The term "first permanent colony" refers to an establishment meant to last indefinitely rather than being temporary or seasonal. In this context, it specifically refers to England's initial successful colonization effort in America.
Related terms
Plymouth Colony: Another significant English colonial settlement established later in Massachusetts after Jamestown.
Roanoke Island Colony: An earlier attempt at establishing an English colony that mysteriously disappeared without a trace.
Mayflower Compact: A governing agreement created by Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower ship when they arrived in Plymouth Colony.