A one

[ ey wuhn ]

adjective

1. noting a vessel regarded by a shipping-classification society as being equipped to the highest standard and with equipment maintained in first-class condition.
2. Also A number one. Informal. first-class; excellent; superior:

   The meals there are A one.

Word History and Origins

Origin of A one¹

First recorded in 1830–40

Idioms and Phrases

Also, A-1; A-number-one . First-class, of the best quality, as in This is an A-one steak . The term comes from Lloyd's, the British insurance company, which in its 1775 shipping register designated the condition of a ship's hull by a letter grade (A, B, etc.) and of its cables, anchor, and other equipment by a number grade (1, 2, etc.). By the early 1800s A-1, the best possible grade, was being transferred to anything of superior quality.

Example Sentences

The Italian custom of calling ladies, as peasants call their wives, "la Such-a-one" was then the fashion at the court of France.

From Project Gutenberg

You might as well open a shop and write on it: Kicks sold here; or, Such-a-one sells blows, wholesale and retail.

From Project Gutenberg

"Such-a-one is a police emissary," or "So-and-so is not to be trusted" were words constantly on his lips.

From Project Gutenberg

He's ce'tainly got an A-one rep. as a cattle detective, and likewise as a man hunter.

From Project Gutenberg

Why, who will give money to be told that Mr. Such-a-one is a wiser and better man than himself?

From Project Gutenberg