first-class

1 of 2

adjective

ˈfərs(t)-ˈklas How to pronounce first-class (audio)
Synonyms of first-classnext
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

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Adjective

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Examples of first-class in a Sentence

Adjective a first-class production of a classic American musical
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
Once on the plane (one of select Boeing 777-300ERs outfitted with new four-suite cabins), each first-class passenger has 37 square feet to themselves. — Laura Dannen Redman, Robb Report, 22 Oct. 2026 But the first-class flights, the five-star hotels—none of it felt natural to her. — Sarah Crompton, Vogue, 21 Oct. 2026
Noun
Jane Birkin was on an Air France flight to London from Paris in 1983 and had been upgraded to first class. — Marisa Meltzer, Vanity Fair, 19 Oct. 2026 The foundation named its first class of eight fellows last week. — Sydney Lake, Fortune, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for first-class

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1819, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1616, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of first-class was in 1616

Rhymes for first-class

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Browse Nearby Words

first-chop
first-class
first class
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“First-class.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/first-class. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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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
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