first-class

1 of 2

adjective

ˈfərs(t)-ˈklas 

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

Adjective

• excellent
• superb
• wonderful
• terrific
• great
• lovely
• beautiful
• fantastic
• awesome
• fabulous
• stellar
• prime
• marvelous
• fine
• quality

Examples of first-class in a Sentence

Adjective

a first-class production of a classic American musical

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The design uses a privacy wall that encases both seats in the last row, similar to those found in first-class seats with privacy doors. —Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 24 Apr. 2026

Each one feels like an intimate retreat, but here paired with impeccable service and first-class facilities. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026

Noun

On the A380s, the company offers two shower spas shared among first class customers. —Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 24 Apr. 2026

The first class of crisis response dogs has just graduated. —Suzanne Le Mignot, CBS News, 22 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1819, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1616, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for first-class

• alas
• amass
• bromegrass
• bypass
• chagas
• crabgrass
• crevasse
• eelgrass
• eyeglass
• groundmass
• harass
• impasse

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