Adjective

classical (comparative more classical, superlative most classical)

1. Of or relating to the first class or rank, especially in literature or art.
2. Of or pertaining to established principles in a discipline.
   • 1992, Rudolf M. Schuster, The Hepaticae and Anthocerotae of North America: East of the Hundredth Meridian, volume V, page vii

     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.

3. Of or pertaining to the ancient Greeks and Romans, especially 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.
4. Conforming to the best authority in literature and art; chaste; pure; refined; as, a classical style.

Derived terms

• Classical Greece
• Classical Greek
• classical history
• Classical Latin
• classical music

The word classical has several meanings. In general, these meanings refer to some past time, works of that era or later works influenced by that time. Classical things are often seen as ordered and part of high culture or a golden age, and contrasted to earlier or later things which may be seen as chaotic, elaborate or emotional.

Quotes about classical music and musicians.

Attributed

• "When I composed that, I was conscious of being inspired by God Almighty. Do you think I can consider your puny little fiddle when He speaks to me?"
  • Ludwig van Beethoven to a violinist who complained that a passage was unplayable

• "All the good music has already been written by people with wigs and stuff."
  • Frank Zappa