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
With jet fuel costs running high, long-haul business and first-class tickets are up sharply this year. — Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 Simple, sophisticated, and elevated, this matching shorts set is worthy of a first-class upgrade. — Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 26 June 2026
Noun
People board not in their group, people who are not first class, Concierge Key, or Delta One will board first. — Zach Wichter, USA Today, 17 June 2026 Microsoft holds a stake of roughly $5 billion and made Claude a first class citizen across its software. — Jon Markman, Forbes.com, 1 July 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 7 Jul. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on first-class

Nglish: Translation of first-class for Spanish Speakers

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