third-class

1 of 2

adjective

ˈthərd-ˈklas 

: of or relating to a class, rank, or grade next below the second

third-class adverb

third class

2 of 2

noun

1

: the third and usually next below second class in a classification

2

: the least expensive class of accommodations (as on a passenger ship)

3

: a former class of U.S. mail comprising circulars, pamphlets, catalogs, and newsletters

Examples of third-class in a Sentence

Noun

She got a third class in English.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

And Nora, an English music hall performer on her way to New York to appear in American vaudeville, is a composite figure representing the ship’s third-class passengers. —Kay Johnson, Twin Cities, 15 Apr. 2024

There are three classes of medical certificates issued by the FAA: first-class airline transfer pilot, second-class commercial pilot, and third-class private pilot. —Harrison Pierce, Travel + Leisure, 23 Mar. 2024

Noun

After graduating from Vassar in 1919, Stimson entered Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons as a member of only the third class to admit women. —Catherine Musemeche, Smithsonian Magazine, 13 Feb. 2025

The board also approved a third class for girls tennis, which will take affect for the fall 2025 season. —Tom Schardin, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1839, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1748, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for third-class

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

Kids Definition

third class

noun

: the class next below second class in a classification

third-class adjective