classicism

noun

clas·​si·​cism ˈkla-sə-ˌsi-zəm How to pronounce classicism (audio)
1
a
: the principles or style embodied in the literature, art, or architecture of ancient Greece and Rome
b
: classical scholarship
c
: a classical idiom or expression
2
: adherence to traditional standards (as of simplicity, restraint, and proportion) that are universally and enduringly valid

Examples of classicism in a Sentence

a return to classicism in modern architecture the classicism of the building
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The busy halls and cautiously optimistic mood among exhibitors and buyers alike suggested that the trade show’s roots in classicism are still appealing and allowed the showcase to reclaim its spot in the menswear conversation. Martino Carrera, WWD, 17 Jan. 2025 In the West, generative AI may beget even more totalitarian classicism—either of the pre-Mannerist or of the post-Mannerist ilk. Mario Carpo, Artforum, 1 Feb. 2025 Similarly, fashion brands at the fair doubled down on classicism, revisiting heritage menswear codes with a global perspective, adding references and craftmanship from a multitude of cultures and subcultures. Alex Badia, WWD, 17 Jan. 2025 This savoir-faire perfectly corresponds with the spirit of cooperation initiated by our founders, William Baume & Paul Mercier, where classicism meets creativity, expertise meets quality, tradition meets modernity, and elegance meets character... Baume & Mercier Contributor, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for classicism

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of classicism was in 1827

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Cite this Entry

“Classicism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/classicism. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

classicism

noun
clas·​si·​cism ˈklas-ə-ˌsiz-əm How to pronounce classicism (audio)
1
: the principles or style of the literature, art, or architecture of ancient Greece and Rome
2
: a following of the standards of tradition (as in music or art)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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