classical

Definition

Of or relating to the first class or rank, especially in literature or art.

Etymology

See classic § Etymology for history. By surface analysis, class + -ical or classic + -al or class + -ic + -al

Example Sentences

• "... Mr. Greaves, who may be juſtly reckoned a Claſſical Author on this Subject."
• "Herbarium material does not, indeed, allow one to extrapolate safely: what you see is what you get; what you get is classical alpha-taxonomy which is, very largely and for sound reasons, in disrepute today."
• "He [Atterbury] directed the classical studies of the undergraduates of his college."