first-class

1 of 2

adjective

ˈfərs(t)-ˈklas 

1

: of or relating to first class

2

: of the highest quality

a first-class meal

first-class adverb

first class

2 of 2

noun

: the first or highest group in a classification: such as

a

: the highest class of travel accommodations

b

: a class of mail that comprises letters, postcards, or matter sealed against inspection

Synonyms of first-class

Adjective

• excellent
• superb
• wonderful
• terrific
• great
• lovely
• beautiful
• fantastic
• awesome
• fabulous
• stellar
• prime
• marvelous
• fine
• quality

Examples of first-class in a Sentence

Adjective

a first-class production of a classic American musical

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

But Layton’s attention to detail, mood and character development establish him as a first-class screenwriter and director, showing the style and vision of a Michael Mann and the grasp for dialogue and character like a Quentin Tarantino or Sydney Pollack. —Randy Myers, Mercury News, 11 Feb. 2026

The brand’s Mongolian Cashmere Wrap, for example, doubles as a first-class-worthy blanket, and its linen pajama sets are chic enough to wear straight from a plane to the hotel pool. —Claire Gallam, Travel + Leisure, 11 Feb. 2026

Noun

Adenot was selected by ESA in 2021 as well, one of only five chosen, and the first class of European astronauts since 2008. —Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 Feb. 2026

This month, the agency will officially expand into the NFL, welcoming its first class of pro football athletes. —Todd Spangler, Variety, 5 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1819, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1616, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for first-class

• alas
• amass
• bromegrass
• bypass
• chagas
• crabgrass
• crevasse
• eelgrass
• eyeglass
• groundmass
• harass
• impasse

Kids Definition

first-class

1 of 2 adjective

1

: of or relating to first class

2

: of the highest quality : excellent

a first-class meal

first class

2 of 2 noun

: the best or highest group in a classification