world-class

adjective

ˈwərl(d)-ˈklas How to pronounce world-class (audio)
: being of the highest caliber in the world
a world-class athlete

Examples of world-class in a Sentence

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.
Long before this year’s Iran war saw its home front and world-class air defenses put under unprecedented assault and strain, the United Arab Emirates endured its first drone and missile attacks from the Houthis in Yemen in January 2022. — Paul Iddon, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 Britain still has major advantages, from world-class museums and galleries to a thriving creative economy, but competing internationally will require more ambitious philanthropy. — George Nelson, ARTnews.com, 27 Aug. 2026 Orchestra leaders say the trips showcase Pittsburgh to audiences around the globe and reinforce the city's reputation as a world-class arts destination. — Gabby Sartori, USA Today, 26 Aug. 2026 He was bought from Benfica for €120million (£106m) in January 2023 to be Jorginho’s replacement, the deep-lying conductor of a new, world-class midfield. — Liam Twomey, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for world-class

Word History

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of world-class was in 1939

Rhymes for world-class

See All Rhymes for world-class

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“World-class.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/world-class. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

world-class

adjective
: being of the highest degree of excellence in the world
a world-class athlete
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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