adjective

1. of the highest class; being a model of its kind; excellent; standard; authoritative; established a classic example of expressionism
2. classical (senses & )
3. of or having a style that is balanced, formal, objective, restrained, regular, simple, etc.
4. famous or well-known, esp. as being traditional or typical a classic court case
5. ☆ Informal continuing in fashion because of its simple style: said of an article of apparel

Etymology: L classicus, relating to the (highest) classes of the Roman people, hence, superior < classis, class

noun

1. a writer, artist, etc. or a literary or artistic work, generally recognized as excellent, authoritative, etc.
2. 1. the works produced by the outstanding authors of ancient Greece and Rome: usually with the
   2. the field of study dealing with these works and with ancient Greek and Latin her major is classics
3. ☆ a famous traditional or typical event the Kentucky Derby is a racing classic
4. ☆ Informal a suit, dress, etc. that is classic in style
5. ☆ Informal an automobile of the period 1925-42