unclassical
|un-class-i-cal|
🇺🇸
/ˌʌnˈklæsɪkəl/
🇬🇧
/ˌʌnˈklæsɪk(ə)l/
not classical; not following classical norms
Etymology
'unclassical' originates from English, specifically formed from the prefix 'un-' (from Old English 'un-' / Proto-Germanic '*un-' meaning 'not') attached to the adjective 'classical' (from Latin 'classicus' via Old French 'classique'), where 'classicus' related to 'classis' meaning 'a class or division'.
'classical' changed from Latin 'classicus' to Old French 'classique' and then entered Middle/Modern English as 'classical'; in Modern English the negative prefix 'un-' was attached to produce 'unclassical' meaning 'not classical'.
Initially, Latin 'classicus' meant 'of the first class' or 'belonging to a class'; over time 'classical' came to mean 'relating to ancient Greek and Roman culture' and more broadly 'formal, traditional, or canonical'; 'unclassical' therefore came to mean 'not conforming to those classical standards or characteristics'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not classical in style or form; deviating from the conventions of classical art, music, literature, or architecture.
The composer's later works were unclassical, blending jazz and electronic elements.
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Adjective 2
not consistent with the principles or ideals associated with classical scholarship or tradition; lacking classical characteristics.
Critics described the staging as unclassical for its deliberate disregard of historical accuracy.
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Last updated: 2025/10/20 23:47