adj. & n.
--adj.
1. a of the first class; of acknowledged excellence. b remarkably typical; outstandingly important (a classic case).
2 a of ancient Greek and Latin literature, art, or culture. b (of style in art, music, etc.) simple, harmonious, well-proportioned; in accordance with established forms (cf. ROMANTIC).
3 having literary or historic associations (classic ground).
4 (of clothes) made in a simple elegant style not much affected by changes in fashion.
--n.
1. a classic writer, artist, work, or example.
2 a an ancient Greek or Latin writer. b (in pl.) the study of ancient Greek and Latin literature and history. c archaic a scholar of ancient Greek and Latin.
3 a follower of classic models (cf. ROMANTIC).
4 a garment in classic style.
5 (in pl.) Brit. the classic races.
Phrases and idioms:
classic races Brit. the five main flat races, namely the Two Thousand and the One Thousand Guineas, the Derby, the Oaks, and the St Leger.
Etymology: F classique or L classicus f. classis class