What does "classic" mean?

1. (typical or perfect example) having all the typical qualities of a particular thing. 2. (timeless and high quality) popular or respected for a long time because of its high quality. 3. (a great work of art) a book, film, or piece of music that is considered to be of very high quality. 4. (ancient Greek or Roman) relating to the culture or literature of ancient Greece and Rome.

How do you use "classic"?

often used before a noun to highlight a perfect example of a mistake or style.

Is it correct to say "I love listening to classic music."?

No — say "I love listening to classical music.". Use 'classical' for the genre of orchestral music (Mozart, Bach). Use 'classic' for something that is a great example of its kind.

classic

adj. · n.

US //ˈkɫæsɪk// UK //klˈæsɪk// clas·sic

1 typical or perfect example (adj.)
B1 Intermediate

having all the typical qualities of a particular thing.

serving as a standard or perfect example of a particular style or category.

Example

It was a classic mistake to leave the windows open during a rainstorm.

Example

The building is a classic example of mid-century modern architecture, featuring clean lines and large glass panels.

Usage

often used before a noun to highlight a perfect example of a mistake or style.
- unusual
- atypical
Pitfall

I love listening to classic music.

I love listening to classical music.

Use 'classical' for the genre of orchestral music (Mozart, Bach). Use 'classic' for something that is a great example of its kind.
2 timeless and high quality (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

popular or respected for a long time because of its high quality.

exhibiting timeless quality and excellence that remains relevant across generations.

Example

She wore a classic black dress that never goes out of style.

Example

The director's debut film has become a classic piece of cinema, studied by students for its innovative use of lighting.
- modern
- temporary

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3 a great work of art (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

a book, film, or piece of music that is considered to be of very high quality.

a work of art, literature, or music of recognized and enduring value.

Example

I finally decided to read 'War and Peace' because it is such a famous classic.

Example

While many modern novels are forgotten within a year, this story has established itself as a true classic of the genre.
- masterpiece
- standard
4 ancient Greek or Roman (adj.)
C1 Advanced Academic Formal

relating to the culture or literature of ancient Greece and Rome.

pertaining to the civilizations of ancient Greece and Rome, particularly their literature and art.

Example

The professor spent years studying classic literature in its original language.

Example

The museum's collection includes several classic sculptures recovered from the ruins of ancient Mediterranean cities.

Teacher's tip

In academic contexts, 'classic' and 'classical' are often used interchangeably when referring to the ancient world.
- greco roman
- classical

Origin

From French classique, from Latin classic(us) (“relating to the classes of Roman citizenry, especially the highest”), from classis. By surface analysis, class + -ic. Piecewise doublet of classy.