society > travel > travel by water > vessel, ship, or boat > war vessel > [adjective] > first-rate (3)
of (the) first rate. Of the highest of the rates (see rate, n.1 12b) by which warships are distinguished according to size and equipment. Now histo…
Of a ship, esp. a warship: suitable for use in the line of battle, of the line; first-rate; of the largest size.
Of a warship: of the first rate. Formerly also: relating to a warship of the first rate. Now historical.