first-rate

1 of 2

adjective

: of the first order of size, importance, or quality
first-rateness noun
first-rater noun

first-rate

2 of 2

adverb

: very well
is getting along first-rateMark Twain

Examples of first-rate in a Sentence

Adjective wanted a first-rate bike and not the cheap model she had been using
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
What, to my mind, truly separates Cali Mykonos is their commitment to detail, which is not experienced so much as felt through their impeccable service and first-rate cuisine. Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 7 Dec. 2024 But after learning what a moat was, Huber concluded his real advantage was a willingness to sweat and a drive to deliver first-rate customer service. Brandon Kochkodin, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024
Adverb
The sushi is first-rate and the creative rolls include the Rainbow which manages to contains tuna, salmon, hamachi, shrimp and avocado. Sherrie Nachman, Forbes, 17 Mar. 2023 The island is known for its outdoor experiences, including first-rate scuba diving at Jean Michel Cousteau Resort, kayaking Salt Lake in Vatudamu, and hiking to see Maroroya Falls. Adrienne Jordan, Travel + Leisure, 3 Mar. 2023 See all Example Sentences for first-rate 

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1674, in the meaning defined above

Adverb

1844, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of first-rate was in 1674

Dictionary Entries Near first-rate

Cite this Entry

“First-rate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/first-rate. Accessed 16 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

first-rate

adjective
ˈfərst-ˈrāt
: of the first order of size, importance, or quality
first-rate adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on first-rate

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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