FIRST-RATE Synonyms: 141 Similar and Opposite Words

first-rate

adjective

ˈfərs(t)-ˈrāt

Definition of first-rate

as in excellent

of the very best kind wanted a first-rate bike and not the cheap model she had been using

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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.

Recent Examples of first-rate Food and drink Sabora Tented Camp excels in the first-rate food and drink experience crucial to a luxury safari. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026 New York’s famous Atomic Wings are back in Texas, this time with a much better restaurant that showcases the first-rate chicken. — Bud Kennedy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 June 2026 The cocktail scene at eight different bars and lounges is first-rate, and every gathering seems to start or end with Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2015, the house pour. — David Swanson, Travel + Leisure, 27 May 2026 The good news is, in a host of overseas havens first-rate medical facilities, English-speaking doctors, and exceptionally high standards of care are the norm. — Kathleen Peddicord, Forbes.com, 21 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for first-rate

Recent Examples of Synonyms for first-rate

Adjective

Williams aims to help build a county government that works for everyday people by lowering the cost of living, delivering excellent county services and protecting fundamental rights.

— Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 Oct. 2026
Nikko Remigio’s reputation as a return man isn’t splashy plays, but rather excellent ball security.

— Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 18 Oct. 2026

Definition of excellent

Adjective

As for Hüller, this is another superb performance in a series of them in recent years.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 23 Oct. 2026
Jansen then trapped Travis Head lbw for 14 after a review and Simon Harmer took a superb catch at gully to send back Marnus Labuschagne (14) with Australia reduced to 45-4 in 14 overs.

— ABC News, ABC News, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of superb

Adjective

The special effects team has done terrific work re-creating his body down to the creature’s fringed lashes.

— Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2026
Even detractors say star Tom Rhys Harries is terrific in his major leading role debut, and praise the film’s use of practical effects.

— James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of terrific

Adjective

L3Harris claims its design can deliver greater range and speed than existing systems.

— Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2026
Tarantino revealed the most personally meaningful piece of casting in a film filled with great performances — including supporting turns by multiple actors (Austin Butler, Mikey Madison, Sydney Sweeney) who have blown up in the seven years since.

— Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 24 Oct. 2026

Definition of great

Adjective

Amenities and experiences The alfresco pool is lovely, but ongoing construction in the area at the moment is a bit of an eyesore.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Oct. 2026
Maybe the two can take the nips out on a lovely date to the Wicker 4DX screenings later this month.

— Bethy Squires, Vulture, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of lovely

Browse Nearby Words

first off

first-rate

first-rateness

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“First-rate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/first-rate. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of first-rate

adjective

Example Sentences

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