: being of the highest caliber in the world
a world-class athlete

Examples of world-class in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Not only was his father a world-class speed skier but his younger brother also loves the sport and the family works together to get the best out of Billy. Ben Church, CNN Money, 4 Feb. 2026 Positioned between the East and West, Dubai stands as a compelling case study of how cities can take control of their future and become centers of global business, with world-class talent at the heart of their success. Abdulla Belhoul, Fortune, 4 Feb. 2026 Boca has a rock-solid corporate tax base with high-paying jobs, incredible universities that are only gaining in stature, and a world-class hospital system with Baptist Health. Marc Wigder, Sun Sentinel, 3 Feb. 2026 Like meeting world-class athletes from around the globe. Aaron Portzline, New York Times, 2 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for world-class

Word History

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of world-class was in 1939

Cite this Entry

“World-class.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/world-class. Accessed 11 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

world-class

adjective
: being of the highest degree of excellence in the world
a world-class athlete
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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