first class

alternative first-class · alternative 1st-class · alternative 1st class

1. not comparableBelonging to the best or top group in a system of classification.

   That was a first class restaurant.

   1 more example

   The admirable smoothness of the riding also reflected the greatest credit on those who, despite the difficulties caused by the shortage of men and materials, have succeeded in maintaining the track in such first-class order.

   1946 July and August, Cecil J. Allen, “British Locomotive Practice and Performance”, in Railway Magazine, page 213

2. not comparableOf, or relating to the most luxurious and expensive class of accommodation on a train, ship, hotel, etc.

   We travelled first class to New York.

3. not comparableOf, or relating to a class of mail to be delivered before second class.

   First class stamps are now more expensive.

4. IndiaUKnot comparableGreat, very enjoyable.

   - How was your holiday? - It was first class.

5. not comparableball gamesOf or relating to a first class match.
6. not comparablecomputingOf or relating to a treatment like that for a first-class object.

   Java has no first-class functions, so function objects are usually expressed by an interface with a single method.

plural first classes · alternative first-class · alternative 1st-class · alternative 1st class

1. A status; section; etc which is of; A status; section; etc which is ofpremier rank.

   sat in first class; attained first class in the Boy Scouts

   1 more example

   In comparing these services with the exclusive trains-de-luxe of former days, however, it must be remembered that when the original first class was abolished on the Continent and second and third class were promoted to first and second respectively, it meant a considerable reduction in first class fares.

   1962 August, Mercury, “The fastest trains on the Continent, 1962: II—Western Germany”, in Modern Railways, page 126

2. IrelandThe third year of primary school, following after the junior and senior infant levels.
3. USOne of two classes of city government in the U.S. state of Kentucky, in which cities elect a mayor and aldermen.