class

n.

1. A classification

   category, division, group, kind, sort, degree, order, rank, grade, standing, level, genus, distinction, breed, type, kingdom, subdivision, phylum, subphylum, subclass, superorder, family, cast, mold, sect, quality, rate, collection, denomination, department, species, variety, branch, genre, range, brand, set, estate, hierarchy, section, domain, nature, suit, color, origin, character, humor, frame, temperament, school, designation, temper, sphere, brood, spirit, vein, persuasion, head, province, league, make, grain, feather, source, name, mood, habit, form, selection, stamp, stripe, status, range, streak, property, aspect, disposition, tone; see also classification 1, state 2.

2. A division of society

   caste, social rank, social stratum, stratum, status, station, socioeconomic level, cultural level, family, breed, sect, layer of society, standing, place, sphere, circle, stock, clan, nobility, high rank, pedigree, society, prestige, income bracket, income group, title, degree, position, connection, precedence, genealogy, power, company, derivation, source, descent, birth, ancestry, influence, hierarchy, state, lineage, condition, strain, tribe, moiety, estate, extraction, origin; see also sense 1, rank 3, tribe.

3. A group organized for study

   course, section, subject, grade, level, year, form, lecture, recitation, seminar, colloquium, discussion group, round table, meeting for study, period, lesson, assembly, group, session, room, division, course of study.

4. *High quality

   elegance, refinement, distinction, panache; see elegance 1.

in a class by itself

class

v.