non-classical
|non-class-i-cal|
🇺🇸
/ˌnɑnˈklæsɪkəl/
🇬🇧
/ˌnɒnˈklæsɪk(ə)l/
not classical
Etymology
'non-classical' originates from English, specifically the prefix 'non-' plus the adjective 'classical', where 'non-' meant 'not' and 'classical' derives from Latin 'classicus'.
'non-' as a negating prefix came into English use by combining with adjectives; 'classical' comes from Latin 'classicus' via French 'classique' and Middle English, and the compound 'non-classical' arose in modern English to denote the negation of 'classical'.
Initially, 'classical' referred to something belonging to the highest class or to the ancient Greco-Roman tradition; over time it came to mean 'traditional' or 'established', and 'non-classical' evolved to mean 'not conforming to those traditions or classical descriptions'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not conforming to or characteristic of classical style, tradition, or established standards (general usage).
His approach to composition is non-classical, blending folk and electronic elements.
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Adjective 2
in physics or optics: not describable by classical (Newtonian or classical electrodynamics) theories — exhibiting quantum or other non-classical effects.
The experiment demonstrated non-classical light with properties incompatible with classical theory.
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Adjective 3
in logic and mathematics: not following the principles of classical logic or classical formulations (e.g., intuitionistic, modal, or other alternative systems).
She specializes in non-classical logics such as intuitionistic and modal systems.
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Last updated: 2025/10/20 23:36