first class

¹

noun

1. the best, finest, or highest class, grade, or rank.

2. the most expensive and most luxurious class of accommodation on trains, ships, airplanes, etc.

3. (in the U.S. Postal Service) the class of mail consisting of letters, postal cards, or the like, together with all mailable matter sealed against inspection.

4. British University.,  the group receiving the highest distinction in an honors course.

first-class

²

[furst-klas, -klahs]

adjective

1. of the highest or best class or quality.

   a first-class movie.

2. best-equipped and most expensive.

   a first-class railroad car.

3. given or entitled to preferred treatment, handling, etc..

   first-class mail.

adverb

1. by first-class conveyance.

   to travel first-class.

first class

noun

1. the class or grade of the best or highest value, quality, etc

adjective

1. of the best or highest class or grade

   a first-class citizen

2. excellent; first-rate

3. of or denoting the most comfortable and expensive class of accommodation in a hotel, aircraft, train, etc

4. 1. (in Britain) of or relating to mail that is processed most quickly

   2. (in the US and Canada) of or relating to mail that consists mainly of written letters, cards, etc

5. education See first

adverb

1. by first-class mail, means of transportation, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of first class¹

First recorded in 1740–50

Origin of first class²

First recorded in 1780–90

Example Sentences

“Couldn’t have been more amazing. A class act all the way. Just first class.”

From Los Angeles Times

“My wife and I go to our first class on child development together,” Rebecca No. 1 tells us.

From Los Angeles Times

After my first class, my arms, thighs and calves were sore for days.

From Los Angeles Times

Most of the school’s first class, which graduates next February, have already secured jobs, a Rolex spokesperson said.

From Los Angeles Times

The first class in October was funded by actor Keanu Reeves, who is a friend of Szlasa’s, with the second bankrolled by the United Way.

From Los Angeles Times