top-shelf

or top shelf

[ top-shelf ]

adjective

1. of high quality; premium:

   His bar cart was full of top-shelf liquor.

   The cinematography is top-shelf.

Word History and Origins

Origin of top-shelf¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

Quarterback Matthew Stafford leads the offense and has a top-shelf receiving tandem in Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, along with a budding star in running back Kyren Williams.

From Los Angeles Times

What really sets the theater apart, though, is its programming of world premiere after world premiere by top-shelf artists.

From New York Times

Mary funds a trip to France where George’s mentors train him to speak well, dance and be a top-shelf, sexually adaptable courtier.

From Salon

It is sponsored by companies selling private jets, exclusive retreats and top-shelf champagne, and included a gala dinner that the organizers described as “the hottest ticket in town.”

From New York Times

Tatar was patient with his shot selection, zipping around the offensive zone and ultimately sending the puck top-shelf.

From Seattle Times