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Definitions

first-rate

[furst-reyt] / ˈfɜrstˈreɪt /
ADJECTIVE
of the highest quality
Synonyms
STRONGEST
excellent exceptional high-quality marvelous outstanding superb
WEAK
A number one A-1 accomplished ace bang-up banner best best quality blue-ribbon capital champion choice choicest exemplary exquisite fine finest first-class great highest quality incomparable magnificent meritorious of the first water of the highest type peerless premium prime quality select skillful splendid sterling striking super superior superlative supreme terrific tiptop top top-drawer top-flight top-notch top-of-the-line world-class
Antonyms
STRONGEST
bad expected inferior ordinary poor regular second-rate unexceptional unnoteworthy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Mr. Sewell is first-rate on the development of Dulles’s foreign-policy philosophy and shows him to be a far more subtle thinker than is often understood.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

The legislation does not foresee an increase in the size of France's armed forces, which remains at 210,000 active-duty personnel, 225 combat aircraft and 15 first-rate frigates.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

But despite the assemblage of first-rate parts, ignition proves elusive.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 5, 2026

This first-rate B-picture couldn’t ask for better branding.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 20, 2025

“This is first-rate coffee. Can I pour myself another cup?”

From "Flush" by Carl Hiaasen