cracking

The thermal decomposition of a substance, especially that of crude petroleum in order to produce petrol / gasoline.

The formation of cracks on a surface.

The production of a crack sound.

the crackings of whips

That cracks; that produces a sharp sound as of something splitting or breaking.

From the spot where the body lay came a fierce fizzing and cracking sound, which ceased, however, before the fumes had cleared away.

Great; excellent.

Near-synonym: crackerjack

The race started at a cracking pace.

Enjoyable.

We had a cracking time.

Near the back of the concourse is a piano, [...]. Explains Reeve: "It was donated by a lady who had written to me. My Duty Manager at the time had a qualification and so was able to restore it to full working order. I've heard some cracking tunes on it."

Very, usually associated with praise.

It was a cracking good show.