first-rate

[ furst-reyt ]

adjective

1. excellent; superb.
2. of the highest rank, rate, or class.

adverb

1. very well.

first-rate

adjective

1. of the best or highest rated class or quality
2. informal.
   very good; excellent

adverb

1. not_standard.
   very well; excellently

Word History and Origins

Origin of first-rate¹

First recorded in 1660–70

Example Sentences

“Totalitarianism in power invariably replaces all first-rate talents, regardless of their sympathies, with those crackpots and fools whose lack of intelligence and creativity is still the best guarantee of their loyalty.”

From Salon

There’s no accounting for when a show will speak to you, but this fleetly staged, sensationally acted touring production is first-rate all around.

From Los Angeles Times

Scottish Conservative party leader Russell Findlay paid tribute to the Conservative stalwart, labelling him "a first-rate politician and a gentleman".

From BBC

“Crevasse” is worth seeing for the first-rate production.

From Los Angeles Times

Cumberbatch has Vincent turned up to high most of the time, but he’s surrounded by quieter performances from a first-rate cast.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• excellent
• exceptional
• high-quality
• marvelous
• outstanding
• superb