third-class

1 of 2

adjective

ˈthərd-ˈklas 

: of or relating to a class, rank, or grade next below the second

third-class adverb

third class

2 of 2

noun

1

: the third and usually next below second class in a classification

2

: the least expensive class of accommodations (as on a passenger ship)

3

: a former class of U.S. mail comprising circulars, pamphlets, catalogs, and newsletters

Examples of third-class in a Sentence

Noun

She got a third class in English.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Her tumultuous third-class voyage to America — the choppy seas! —Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 2 Mar. 2025

All second- and third-class passengers to the lifeboats. —Andy Hoglund, Vulture, 13 Feb. 2025

Noun

The third class for girls tennis will allow more students will have access to the state tournament and the reduction in enrollment ratios should help create more balanced section competitions. —Tom Schardin, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025

After graduating from Vassar in 1919, Stimson entered Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons as a member of only the third class to admit women. —Catherine Musemeche, Smithsonian Magazine, 13 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1839, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1748, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for third-class

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

Kids Definition

third class

noun

: the class next below second class in a classification

third-class adjective