noun
Order of the 1st Class
Refers to the highest rank within the Japanese system of orders and decorations (勲章). Historically awarded for exceptional merit, now part of the modern honors system.
彼は長年の功績により勲一等瑞宝章を授与された。
He was awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, 1st Class, for his many years of service.
勲章 is the general term for a medal or decoration, while 勲一等 specifies the highest class within that system.
Compound of 勲 (merit) + 一等 (first class). The term originates from the Japanese honors system established in the Meiji era.