classical
KLAS-ih-kl
Classical (adj) means relating to Western art music of the 18th and 19th centuries, or to orchestral music generally. Example: “She prefers classical music to pop.”
adj
1
Relating to Western art music of the 18th and 19th centuries, or to orchestral music generally.
"She prefers classical music to pop."
"The orchestra played a classical concert in the town hall."
"He plays classical piano and practises for an hour each day."
2
Relating to ancient Greek and Roman culture, literature, or art.
"He studied classical history at university."
"The museum has a fine collection of classical sculpture from Greece."
"She is learning Latin to read classical authors in the original."
3
Based on long-established, traditional principles rather than newer theories.
"Classical physics doesn't account for quantum effects."
"The chef follows classical French methods rather than modern trends."
"Many teachers still prefer a classical approach to grammar."
How to use classical
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTraditional and established — used for ancient Greek/Roman culture, orchestral music, or long-standing scientific theories (as opposed to modern revisions).
Easily confused with
Common pairings
classical music
classical literature
classical physics
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more classical
- Superlative
- most classical
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She prefers _____ music to pop.
Etymology
See the etymology at classic for the history. By surface analysis, it can be broken down as class plus -ical, or classic plus -al, or class plus -ic plus -al.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
nonclassical
Related words
Rhymes for classical
See all rhymes for classical →Frequently asked questions
What does “classical” mean?
The word “classical” means relating to Western art music of the 18th and 19th centuries, or to orchestral music generally. In plain terms, traditional and established — used for ancient Greek/Roman culture, orchestral music, or long-standing scientific theories (as opposed to modern revisions).
How do you pronounce “classical”?
“Classical” is pronounced KLAS-ih-kl (/ˈklæs.ɪ.k(ə)l/ in IPA).
How do you use “classical” in a sentence?
Here is “classical” used in a sentence: “She prefers classical music to pop.”
What is another word for “classical”?
Words with a similar meaning to “classical” include classic.
What part of speech is “classical”?
“Classical” is an adjective.
Is “classical” a common word?
“Classical” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “classical” have?
“Classical” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to Western art music of the 18th and 19th centuries, or to orchestral music generally.
What is the difference between 'classical' and 'classic'?
'Classical' usually relates to formal traditions such as Western orchestral music of the 18th and 19th centuries, or to ancient Greek and Roman culture. 'Classic' more often means a standout example of high quality or lasting appeal, as in 'a classic film.' You would say 'classical music' but 'a classic novel.'
Does 'classical' always refer to music?
No. While 'classical' commonly describes Western art music, it also relates to ancient Greek and Roman culture, literature, or art, as in 'classical mythology' or 'classical architecture.' The meaning depends on context.
What is the difference between 'classical music' and 'classic rock'?
'Classical music' refers to Western orchestral art music, particularly from the 18th and 19th centuries. 'Classic rock' uses the word 'classic' instead, meaning well-established, enduring rock songs, and the two describe completely different genres.
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