'classicize' originates from English, formed by combining the adjective 'classic' with the productive verb-forming suffix '-ize' (from Greek -izein via Latin -izare).

'classic' comes from Latin 'classicus' (meaning 'of the highest class, first-class'), from 'classis' (a class or division). The verb-forming suffix arrived later via Late Latin and French influence, producing English verbs such as 'classicize' in modern usage.

Initially, 'classic' referred to a class or rank and then to exemplary works; over time the derived verb 'classicize' came to mean 'to make or render in a classical style' or 'to treat as classical.'