front-rank

[ fruhnt-rangk ]

/ ˈfrʌntˈræŋk /

among the best or most important; foremost; topnotch.

Origin of front-rank

First recorded in 1590–1600

Discipline before all,” said I. “Follow your front-rank man.

The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition Vol. 20 (of 25) |Robert Louis Stevenson
His progress has been most remarkable, and it looks as if he is going to make one of the front-rank preachers.

How I Know God Answers Prayer |Rosalind Goforth
And at none of these things was he an amateur, but as good as most front-rank professionals.

Superwomen |Albert Payson Terhune
The dread which some medical men have of cold applications is wonderful, but we know that the front-rank men have no such fear.

Papers on Health |John Kirk

De Spain knew none of the front-rank men, but he knew well Nan Morgan and her dancing partner.

Nan of Music Mountain |Frank H. Spearman