first-class

1 of 2

adjective

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 of usually three classes of travel accommodations
b
: a class of mail that comprises letters, postcards, or matter sealed against inspection

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
Customers at the airline’s first-class lounge, The Pier, First at the Hong Kong International Airport will now be able to enjoy a truly spectacular dining experience. Sandra MacGregor, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025 At the time, Thompson allegedly convinced the 14-year-old girl to use the facilities in the first-class section of the plane and escorted her there. Charna Flam, People.com, 8 Mar. 2025
Noun
Jayden received his first dance scholarship in 2021 and impressed his teachers from his first class, said Amy Giordano, the dance school’s executive director. Caroline Kubzansky, Chicago Tribune, 14 Mar. 2025 As of Tuesday, the fast food chain's burgers are available in first class on flights over 900 miles departing from Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York-LaGuardia, and Seattle. Natalie Neysa Alund, USA TODAY, 5 Mar. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“First-class.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/first-class. Accessed 18 Mar. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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