Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

world-class

American  
[wurld-klas, -klahs] / ˈwɜrldˈklæs, -ˈklɑs /
Or worldclass

adjective

  1. ranking among the world's best; outstanding.

    a world-class orchestra.

  2. attracting or comprising world-class players, performers, etc..

    a world-class tennis tournament.

  3. Informal.  being a notorious example of its kind.

    a world-class slob.


world-class British  

adjective

  1. of or denoting someone with a skill or attribute that puts him or her in the highest class in the world

    a world-class swimmer

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of world-class

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This is the easy part - the difficult one is how to replace such a world-class talent, who is third in the club's all-time scoring list behind Ian Rush and Roger Hunt.

From BBC

The funds will be used to restore Ellisland Farm north of Dumfries and create a "world-class cultural destination" on the site.

From BBC

It added: "The organising committee reaffirmed that despite the venue changes, Thailand remains fully committed to delivering an efficient, well-managed and world-class 33rd SEA Games, reinforcing the confidence of all participating nations."

From Barron's

She’s support-staffed enough of other people’s stories these last few years; somebody please give this world-class actor her own heavenly leading role.

From Los Angeles Times

He has been below his world-class best, but remains one of Liverpool's potential match-winners.

From BBC