What does classic mean?
"Classic" is one of English's most versatile words of praise. As an adjective, it marks something as belonging to the highest class — a work of lasting excellence, or the definitive, most recognizable version of its type: a classic novel, a classic car, a classic blunder. As a noun, it names those works themselves, from Homer and Shakespeare to jazz standards and vintage films, along with styles that never fade from fashion. The word derives from the Latin "classicus," which designated a Roman citizen of the top property class, giving it from the start an association with the very best. Its power lies in combining two ideas at once: quality and permanence. To call something classic is to say it has already stood the test of time and will likely keep doing so — a judgment both aesthetic and historical.
Of acknowledged excellence or enduring significance; also, typically representative or characteristic of its kind.
"The film remains a classic example of 1940s noir."
Often used with "case," "example," or "mistake" to mean quintessential rather than excellent.
A work of art, literature, or music judged to be of the highest quality and lasting value; also a traditional, enduringly popular style.
"She has read all the classics of Russian literature."
"Classics" commonly refers collectively to great works of literature and art, and specifically to Greco-Roman literature and languages as a field of study.
"He studied classics at Oxford before turning to law."
The word "classic" comes from the Latin classicus, meaning a Roman citizen of the highest tax-paying class — so calling something a classic literally means it's first-rate.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of classic
"Classic" derives from the Latin "classicus," an adjective applied to a citizen of the highest class of Roman society (from "classis," the divisions of the Roman people). In the early 17th century the word came into English, initially meaning a writer of the first rank, and gradually broadened to describe any work or object of enduring excellence. It shares its root with "class" and "classification," and gave rise to "classical" and "classicism."
Related word forms
How classic is actually used
Both "classic" and "classical" are used for art and music, but "classic" emphasizes individual excellence while "classical" denotes an established tradition or period. As a noun, "the classics" traditionally refers to the literature and languages of ancient Greece and Rome.
Easily confused with classic
"Classic" describes a single outstanding, enduring item (a classic novel), while "classical" refers broadly to the traditions of ancient Greece and Rome or to long-established forms such as classical music.