Definition of "second-class" in English

adjective

1. (neutral or mildly positive connotation) Of a standard or grade one level below the best.

   • a second-class train ticket, second-class postage, a second-class honours degree

2. (negative connotation) Inferior in quality or standing.

   • He complained he felt like a second-class citizen, but everyone felt put upon that day.
   • Using second-class parts for the repair was false economy because they soon broke and had to be fixed again.