blue-ribbon

1 of 2

adjective

blue-rib·​bon ˈblü-ˈri-bən How to pronounce blue-ribbon (audio)
Synonyms of blue-ribbonnext
: of outstanding quality
especially : consisting of individuals selected for quality, reputation, or authority
a blue-ribbon panel

blue ribbon

2 of 2

noun

1
: an honor or award gained for preeminence
2
: a blue ribbon awarded as an honor (as to the first-place winner in a competition)

Synonyms of blue-ribbon

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Adjective

Noun

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Examples of blue-ribbon in a Sentence

Adjective your work on this project has been of blue-ribbon quality Noun Our pumpkin won the blue ribbon at the county fair this year. the Pritzker Prize is widely regarded as the ultimate blue ribbon for architectural achievement
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.
Adjective
Complete with fresh onion, peppers, and lots of corn off the cob, this tangy blue-ribbon relish is an undeniable winner. — Andrea Beck, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 May 2026 The over 70 positive comments shared that this cake is always requested and is by far a blue-ribbon worthy dessert. — Nellah Bailey McGough, Southern Living, 15 Mar. 2026
Noun
Her blonde hair was styled in a braid tied with a blue ribbon, while her glam consisted of her go-to red lip and winged eyeliner. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 10 June 2026 This dessert's combination of vanilla ice cream, chewy cookies, and lots of chocolate chips has earned it a blue ribbon. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 28 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for blue-ribbon

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1860, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1651, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of blue-ribbon was in 1651

Rhymes for blue-ribbon

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Browse Nearby Words

blue riband
blue-ribbon
blue ribbon
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Cite this Entry

“Blue-ribbon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/blue-ribbon. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

blue ribbon

noun
: a blue ribbon awarded the first-place winner in a competition

Legal Definition

blue-ribbon

adjective
blue-rib·​bon
: consisting of individuals selected for quality, reputation, or authority
a blue-ribbon committee
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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