noun · The candidate ranked first in the palace examination, the highest level of the Chinese imperial examination system.

他在殿试中表现优异，被皇帝钦点为状元。

noun · The person who achieves the highest marks in a modern academic examination, particularly the National College Entrance Examination (Gaokao).

她是今年全省的高考文科状元。

noun · The most talented, successful, or outstanding person within a specific field, trade, or profession.

三百六十行，行行出状元。