Definition of 'classic'

Word Frequency

classic

(klæsɪk )

Word forms: plural classics

1. adjective [usually ADJECTIVE noun]

A classic example of a thing or situation has all the features which you expect such a thing or situation to have.

The debate in the mainstream press has been a classic example of British hypocrisy.

His first two goals were classic cases of being in the right place at the right time.

Classic is also a noun.

It was a classic of interrogation: first the bully, then the kind one who offers sympathy. [+ of]

2. adjective [ADJECTIVE noun]

A classic film, piece of writing, or piece of music is of very high quality and has become a standard against which similar things are judged.

...the classic children's film Huckleberry Finn.

...a classic study of the American penal system.

Classic is also a noun.

The record won a gold award and remains one of the classics of modern popular music. [+ of]

...a film classic.

3. countable noun

A classic is a book which is well-known and considered to be of a high literary standard. You can refer to such books generally as the classics.

As I grow older, I like to reread the classics regularly.

4. adjective [usually ADJECTIVE noun]

Classic style is simple and traditional and is not affected by changes in fashion.

Wear classic clothes which feel good and look good.

These are classic designs which will fit in well anywhere.

Synonyms: lasting, enduring, abiding, immortal More Synonyms of classic

5. adjective [ADJECTIVE noun]

A classic car is a model of car that is greatly admired because of its style, and is considered to be one of the best of its kind; used especially to talk about cars which are no longer being produced.

6. uncountable noun

Classics is the study of the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, especially their languages, literature, and philosophy.

...a Classics degree.

More Synonyms of classic

Video: pronunciation of
classic

classic in British English

(ˈklæsɪk )

adjective

of the highest class, esp in art or literature

serving as a standard or model of its kind; definitive

adhering to an established set of rules or principles in the arts or sciences

a classic proof

characterized by simplicity, balance, regularity, and purity of form; classical

of lasting interest or significance

continuously in fashion because of its simple and basic style

a classic day dress

noun

an author, artist, or work of art of the highest excellence

a creation or work considered as definitive

9. horse racing

any of the five principal races for three-year-old horses in Britain, namely the One Thousand Guineas, Two Thousand Guineas, Derby, Oaks, and Saint Leger

a race equivalent to any of these in other countries

Word origin

C17: from Latin classicus of the first rank, from classis division, rank, class

Word Frequency

classic in American English

(ˈklæsɪk )

adjective

of the highest class; being a model of its kind; excellent; standard; authoritative; established

a classic example of expressionism

classical (sense 2) classical (sense 3)

of or having a style that is balanced, formal, objective, restrained, regular, simple, etc.

Examples of 'classic' in a sentence
classic

These examples have been automatically selected and may contain sensitive content. Read more…

The outstanding moments of the sketch comedy feel like instant classics. Two classic tales are interwoven with hilarious results.Yet it still appeals to the youngsters with a classic battle of good versus evil.We have to dig out the best of contemporary music and retain the classic works of old.The examples given of companies incorrectly defining their businesses have also become classics. Look for classic shapes and your coat will last you for decades. Northampton were a classic case last season. Stardust is not a classic of its kind.How many dads actually like classic cars?We reshape our classic works for the temper and taste of our times.