CLASSICS
classics
(noun) study of the literary works of ancient Greece and Rome
Source: WordNet® 3.1
Noun
classics pl (plural only)
synonym of classical studies: the study of Ancient Greek and Latin, their literature, history etc.
Noun
classics
plural of classic
Source: Wiktionary
CLASSIC
Clas"sic, Clas"sic*al, a. Etym: [L. classicus relating to the classes
of the Roman people, and especially to the frist class; hence, of the
first rank, superior, from classis class: cf. F. classique. See
Class, n.]
1. Of or relating to the first class or rank, especially in
literature or art.
Give, as thy last memorial to the age, One classic drama, and reform
the stage. Byron.
Mr. Greaves may justly be reckoned a classical author on this subject
[Roman weights and coins]. Arbuthnot.
2. Of or pertaining to the ancient Greeks and Romans, esp. to Greek
or Roman authors of the highest rank, or of the period when their
best literature was produced; of or pertaining to places inhabited by
the ancient Greeks and Romans, or rendered famous by their deeds.
Though throned midst Latium's classic plains. Mrs. Hemans.
The epithet classical, as applied to ancient authors, is determined
less by the purity of their style than by the period at which they
wrote. Brande & C.
He [Atterbury] directed the classical studies of the undergraduates
of his college. Macaulay.
3. Conforming to the best authority in literature and art; chaste;
pure; refined; as, a classical style.
Classical, provincial, and national synods. Macaulay.
Classicals orders. (Arch.) See under Order.
Clas"sic, n.
1. A work of acknowledged excellence and authrity, or its author; --
originally used of Greek and Latin works or authors, but now applied
to authors and works of a like character in any language.
In is once raised him to the rank of a legitimate English classic.
Macaulay.
2. One learned in the literature of Greece and Rome, or a student of
classical literature.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition