first-rate

1 of 2

adjective

ˈfərs(t)-ˈrāt How to pronounce first-rate (audio)
Synonyms of first-ratenext
: of the first order of size, importance, or quality
a first-rate chef/book/education
Service there is always first-rate.
first-rateness noun
first-rater
ˈfərs(t)-ˈrā-tər How to pronounce first-rate (audio)
noun

first-rate

2 of 2

adverb

: very well
… is getting along first-rate …—Mark Twain

Synonyms of first-rate

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Adjective

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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
Dubbed the Isle of Eight Flags, Amelia Island’s beautiful beaches, winding waterways, and dense maritime forests are first-rate examples of why this land has always been so desirable. — Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 21 June 2026 Kudos to the fans in Seattle for making a first-rate environment, and to the USMNT for a performance that was worthy of it. — Alex Kirshner, New York Times, 20 June 2026
Adverb
But that requires significant planning, the hiring of a major architecture firm with concert hall experience, a first-rate acoustician and, ideally, four times the allotted budget. — Classical Music Critic, Los Angeles Times, 20 Aug. 2026 Shawn Hatosy is a first-rate actor who has been in the business for more than 35 years, working on screens big and small, but primarily making his name on TV drama series. — Scott Feinberg, HollywoodReporter, 18 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for first-rate

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Browse Nearby Words

first public examination
first-rate
first-rater
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“First-rate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/first-rate. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of first-rate for Spanish Speakers

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