First water
Definitions
describing something as the best or highest quality
To emphasize the exceptional or unrivaled nature of someone or something, often used in the context of sports or competitionsdescribing someone as genuine or authentic
To describe someone as being completely genuine or authentic, often used in the context of character or personalitydescribing something as being the first of its kind or the original
To refer to the first or original iteration of something, often used in the context of inventions or ideas
Examples of First water
The luxury cruise liner offers first-water accommodations, complete with marble bathrooms, gourmet dining, and private balconies.
"First water" is a nautical term that refers to the highest quality and most desirable location on a ship. It originally referred to the first deck that was above the waterline, providing passengers with the best views and most comfortable accommodations. In modern usage, "first water" is commonly used to describe the most luxurious and exclusive options available, whether it's on a ship, in a hotel, or in any other setting where high-end accommodations are provided.
She had always dreamed of staying in a first-water hotel, complete with a private pool and a butler on call.
Again, this usage emphasizes the idea of being the very best, the most luxurious and exclusive option available.
The yacht club offers first-water moorings for its members, ensuring that their vessels are protected from the elements and the crowds.
This usage highlights the exclusivity and prestige of being able to access the highest quality and most desirable location.
Our company provides first-water customer service, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible experience.
While this usage is less common, it can be employed in a variety of contexts to emphasize the idea of providing the highest quality and most desirable experience. Here, "first water" is used to describe the best possible level of customer service, one that goes above and beyond to exceed expectations and provide an exceptional experience.
The yacht we rented for our vacation was considered first water because it had all the latest and most luxurious amenities on board.
In nautical terminology, "first water" refers to a high-class, well-equipped vessel that offers the utmost comfort and luxury for passengers. It is the equivalent of a five-star hotel on land, and is considered to be the best of the best in terms of quality and luxury.
The ski resort we visited was rated as a first water destination because of its world-class facilities, including multiple ski runs, state-of-the-art equipment, and experienced instructors.
In the world of skiing, "first water" refers to a resort or destination that offers the very best in terms of skiing conditions, equipment, and personnel. It is the equivalent of a top-tier ski resort, and is considered to be the best of the best in terms of skiing experiences.
The steakhouse we dined at was rated as having first water cuts of beef because of the exceptional quality and flavor of their meat.
In culinary terminology, "first water" refers to the highest quality of a particular ingredient, which is considered to be the best of the best in terms of flavor, texture, and overall culinary experience. In the case of beef, "first water" cuts are the most tender, flavorful, and expensive cuts available, and are highly sought after by discerning foodies and beef connoisseurs.
The hotel we stayed at was considered a first water establishment due to its prime location, exceptional service, and luxurious amenities.
In hotel and hospitality terminology, "first water" refers to a hotel or establishment that offers the utmost in terms of comfort, service, and luxury. It is the equivalent of a five-star hotel on land, and is considered to be the best of the best in terms of accommodation experiences. The term "first water" is used to differentiate these top-tier hotels and establishments from more basic or budget-friendly options, which are considered to be "second water" or "third water" depending on the level of luxury and service provided.
Conclusion
The idiom "first water" can be used in a variety of ways, but all with the same underlying intention of emphasizing something as the best, most genuine, or original. It is often used in the context of sports or competitions to describe a top-performing athlete or team as being of the highest quality. It can also be used to describe someone's character or personality as being completely genuine and authentic. Additionally, it can refer to the first or original iteration of something, highlighting its significance or importance.Origin of "First water"
The origin of the idiom "first water" can be traced back to the 18th century, when diamonds were graded based on their quality using a system called "water." The highest quality diamonds were graded as "first water," indicating their exceptional purity and brilliance. This grading system eventually evolved to also describe other things as being of the highest quality, leading to the use of "first water" as an idiom.
Another theory suggests that the idiom originated from the mining industry, where the first water to be pumped out of a mine was often the purest and most valuable. This idea of "first water" being the best or highest quality then expanded to other areas of life.
Regardless of its exact origin, the idiom "first water" has become a commonly used phrase to describe something as being the best, most genuine, or original. Its origins in the world of diamonds and mining have given it a connotation of exceptional value and quality.