classic
classic
Pronunciation
The IPA phonetic spelling:
/ˈklæsɪk/
Here's a breakdown of the sounds by syllable:
clas-: /klæs/
-sic: /ɪk/
Word Form Variations
Adjective:
classic (singular)
(no direct plural form as an adjective)
classicker (comparative - less common but grammatically possible)
classickest (superlative - less common but grammatically possible)
Noun:
classic (singular)
classics (plural)
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Adjective
Definition 1: Describing something of the highest quality and enduring value, often serving as a standard or model against which others are judged, especially within a particular genre or field.
Synonyms: exemplary, archetypal, definitive, quintessential, traditional, timeless, standard, model
Antonyms: inferior, subpar, unconventional, modern, fleeting, unoriginal
Definition 2: Pertaining to or characteristic of ancient Greek or Roman art, literature, or culture.
Synonyms: Greco-Roman, ancient, classical
Antonyms: modern, contemporary
Noun
Definition 1: A work of art, literature, music, or other creative endeavor that is recognized as being of enduring excellence and significance.
Synonyms: masterpiece, paragon, standard, exemplar, touchstone, gem
Antonyms: flop, failure, mediocrity, novelty
Definition 2: A highly traditional or characteristic example of something, often one that has been popular or successful for a long time.
Synonyms: staple, standard, archetype, institution, benchmark
Antonyms: anomaly, deviation, oddity, fad
Examples of Use
Books: "The novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a classic of American literature, widely studied for its themes of racial injustice and moral growth."
Newspapers: "The local theater group is performing a classic Shakespearean play, drawing large crowds despite the challenging material." ( The Daily Gazette)
Online Publications: "In an article discussing enduring fashion trends, a style blog noted, 'The little black dress remains a classic wardrobe essential, adaptable for any occasion.'" ( Fashion Forward Weekly)
Entertainment Mediums (Film): "Critics lauded the new action film as a 'return to form,' stating it captured the spirit of classic 80s blockbusters."
Entertainment Platforms (Music Streaming): "On a curated playlist titled 'Timeless Tunes,' the description read: 'Featuring classic rock anthems and soulful ballads that never go out of style.'" (Spotify)
General Public Discourse: "My grandmother always says that her mother's homemade apple pie recipe is a true classic—everyone loves it."
Entertainment Mediums (Television): "During a retrospective on animated shows, a commentator remarked, 'Shows like The Simpsons are considered classic for their groundbreaking humor and cultural impact.'"
Online Publications: "An automotive review site recently featured an article titled 'Why the 1965 Ford Mustang is a Classic American Car,' detailing its enduring appeal and design." (Car Enthusiast Magazine Online)
10 Quotes Using Classic
"Classic. A book which people praise and don't read." (Mark Twain)
"Fashions fade, style is eternal. The difference between style and fashion is quality. Fashion changes, but style endures. Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak. Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." (Coco Chanel)
"The story being told in 'Star Wars' is a classic one. Every few hundred years, the story is retold because we have a tendency to do the same things over and over again." (George Lucas)
"When you re-read a classic you do not see in the book more than you did before. You see more in you than there was before." (Clifton Fadiman)
"Instead of stubbornly attempting to use surrealism for purposes of subversion, it is necessary to try to make of surrealism something as solid, complete and classic as the works of museums." (Salvador Dalí)
"Stick to the classics, and you can't ever go wrong." (Alexa Chung)
"I never really had the classic struggle. I had faith." (Denzel Washington)
"My favorite thing is playing the classics, and I am going to do some huge Shakespeare roles." (Jean Marsh)
"Ranking among the greatest Christmas movie classics, 'It's a Wonderful Life' tells a beautiful story about the priceless value of relationships." (John C. Maxwell)
"The books are accurate enough that they can serve as a gateway to Homer and Virgil. I get letters from college kids who have read Percy Jackson when they were younger who tell me, 'I just passed my Classics exam.'" (Rick Riordan)
Etymology
The word "classic" has a fascinating journey through time, rooted in ancient Rome.
It comes from the Latin word classicus. In ancient Rome, a "classis" referred to a "class" of citizens, specifically the highest class – those who were wealthy and had a high social standing. So, something described as "classicus" originally meant it belonged to the highest class of citizens, implying something of the highest rank or quality.
The first known use of "classic" in English, with a meaning similar to how we use it today, appeared around the mid-17th century (specifically the 1650s). At this time, it was used to describe authors or artists who were considered to be of the first rank or highest authority, especially in the context of ancient Greek and Roman literature and art. Think of it like saying an author was "top-tier" or "a standard by which others are judged."
So, from its origins of describing the top social class in Rome, "classic" evolved to describe the top quality or standard in various fields, particularly in art and literature, before expanding to its broader modern meanings of enduring excellence.
Phrases + Idioms Containing Classic
Classic case of...: This refers to a perfect or typical example of a particular situation or problem.
A classic move: Describes an action or strategy that is typical or characteristic of someone or a particular situation.
Instant classic: Used for something that is immediately recognized as being of high quality and likely to become enduring.
Classic example: Similar to "classic case," indicating a perfect illustration of something.
Classic rock: A specific genre of rock music, generally referring to rock from the 1960s to 1980s.
Classic car: Refers to an older car (often over 20 years old) that is recognized for its historical significance, design, or collectibility.
A classic for the ages: Emphasizes the timeless and enduring quality of something.
Classic look/style: Pertains to a timeless or traditional appearance that doesn't go out of fashion.
A true classic: Signifies something that embodies the highest standards of its kind.
Classic comeback: A retort or reply that is particularly witty, sharp, or characteristic of someone.
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of classic from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
