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

What a first-class thing to do. —Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026

When David Bazzel first approached then-University of Arkansas Athletic Director Frank Broyles about celebrating the top assistant coach in college football, Broyles said five months was not enough time to put on a first-class banquet. —Arkansas Online, 15 Feb. 2026

Noun

Al Safwa Lounge, reserved for first class passengers, is the pinnacle; the entrance to the hushed cavernous space is by a discrete elevator. —Rachel Morris, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 Feb. 2026

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

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