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Classical: meaning, definitions and examples

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classical

 

[ ˈklæsɪkəl ]

Adjective
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adjective

music

Relating to the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, especially in art, literature, and architecture.

Synonyms

historic, time-honored, traditional

Examples of usage

  • The concert featured a selection of classical music composed by Beethoven and Mozart.
  • She studied classical literature at university.
Context #2 | Adjective

education

Of or relating to the ancient Greek and Roman world, especially in language or literature.

Synonyms

ancient, literary, traditional

Examples of usage

  • The students were required to read classical texts in their original languages.
  • The classical education system emphasizes the study of Latin and Greek.
Context #3 | Adjective

general

Representing an exemplary standard within a particular traditional and long-established form or style.

Synonyms

classic, exemplary, timeless

Examples of usage

  • He is a classical example of a gentleman.
  • The building's architecture is classical in design.

Translations

Translations of the word "classical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 clássico

🇮🇳 शास्त्रीय

🇩🇪 klassisch

🇮🇩 klasik

🇺🇦 класичний

🇵🇱 klasyczny

🇯🇵 クラシック (kurashikku)

🇫🇷 classique

🇪🇸 clásico

🇹🇷 klasik

🇰🇷 고전적인 (gojeon-jeogin)

🇸🇦 كلاسيكي

🇨🇿 klasický

🇸🇰 klasický

🇨🇳 经典 (jīngdiǎn)

🇸🇮 klasičen

🇮🇸 klassískt

🇰🇿 классикалық

🇬🇪 კლასიკური

🇦🇿 klassik

🇲🇽 clásico

Word origin

The word 'classical' originated from the Latin word 'classicus', meaning 'belonging to the highest class of Roman citizens'. Over time, it evolved to refer to anything of the first rank or highest class. In the context of art, literature, and music, 'classical' came to denote works of a high standard that draw inspiration from the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. Today, 'classical' is used to describe things that are distinguished, traditional, and of enduring quality.

See also: class, classes, classic, classicalist, classification, classifications, classified, classify, classily, classroom, classy, outclass, reclassify, subclassing, unclassified, underclassmen, upperclassmen.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,967, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.