classicus
The English word "classic", meaning exhibiting timeless quality, is translated into Latin as classicus.
classicus is used as an adjective to describe something that possesses a timeless or exemplary quality.
Meaning: exhibiting timeless quality (adj)
Did you know?
- Beyond people, the word classis was used in Latin to refer to a fleet of warships.
- In the Roman taxation system, a classicus was actually a person belonging to the highest tax-paying class. Therefore, the word's sense of 'excellence' is tied directly to one's financial status and social standing.
- The Proto-Indo-European root for this word, *kelh₁-, is related to the concept of 'calling' or 'summoning' a group. This suggests the 'class' was a group called together for a specific purpose.
Examples in context
- Stilus classicus est pulcher.The classic style is beautiful.
Example conversation
Gaius and Lucia are looking at an old sculpture in a garden.
- GaiusVide hanc statuam, Lucia!Look at this statue, Lucia!
- LuciaEstne haec nova?Is this one new?
- GaiusNon, hic aspectus est classicus.No, this look is classic.
- LuciaIta, pulcherrima est.Yes, it is very beautiful.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries classicus, CC BY-SA 4.0.
