adj. 1 standard, leading, outstanding, prototypical, definitive, model, ideal, archetypal, paradigmatic His military career is a classic example of what family connections can achieve 2 legendary, immortal, enduring, deathless, ageless, timeless, undying, venerable, time-honoured; outstanding, first-rate, superior, excellent, noteworthy, notable, exemplary By the time she was ten, she had read most of the classic works of English literature He collects classic cars.
n. 3 paragon, epitome, outstanding example, exemplar, model, paradigm, prototype When it comes to comedians, Ronnie is a classic 4 masterpiece, master-work The Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost is regarded as a classic by collectors