# classic

/ˈkɫæsɪk/ (US) · /klˈæsɪk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/classic
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. typical or perfect example

adjective · CEFR B1

having all the typical qualities of a particular thing.

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

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

### 2. timeless and high quality

adjective · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: exhibiting timeless quality and excellence that remains relevant across generations.

- She wore a classic black dress that never goes out of style.
- The director's debut film has become a classic piece of cinema, studied by students for its innovative use of lighting.

### 3. a great work of art

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- I finally decided to read 'War and Peace' because it is such a famous classic.
- While many modern novels are forgotten within a year, this story has established itself as a true classic of the genre.

### 4. ancient Greek or Roman

adjective · CEFR C1 · Academic · Formal

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

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

- The professor spent years studying classic literature in its original language.
- The museum's collection includes several classic sculptures recovered from the ruins of ancient Mediterranean cities.

Teaching tip: In academic contexts, 'classic' and 'classical' are often used interchangeably when referring to the ancient world.

## Examples

- This 1950s film is a true Hollywood classic.
- The professor argued that while many novels are popular today, only a few will become true classics in the next century.
- Scholars often debate what criteria a contemporary work must meet to be deemed a classic, usually focusing on its influence on subsequent generations and its ability to transcend its original cultural context.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.