of the first water

Idioms and Phrases

Of the finest quality, as in That was a play of the first water . This idiom refers to a grading system for diamonds for their color or luster (compared to the shininess of water). The system is no longer used but the term, used figuratively since the early 1800s, has survived it.

Example Sentences

“When it comes to ‘coercion,’ the coercer of the first water is the United States,” it said.

From Washington Times

The small park has not only adapted to recent technologies but paved the way, like with the addition of one of the first water coaster hybrids in the world.

From Seattle Times

This was manifestly a prig of the first water, and there was no use arguing with him.

From Literature

Though Whistledown calls Daphne “a diamond of the first water,” it is here that our cynical narrator reminds us that “the brighter a lady shines, the faster she may burn.”

From Washington Post

Song: “Thank U, Next,” originally by Ariana Grande, cover version by Vitamin String Quartet When it plays: Grande’s ode to her past relationships is heard in the pilot episode, “Diamond of the First Water,” as London’s eligible debutantes arrive for a ball at Danbury House.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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