classicism

noun

clas·​si·​cism ˈkla-sə-ˌsi-zəm 

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

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

Housed in a 19th century Roman palazzo, the hotel’s 78 rooms and suites showcase Italian baroque opulence and the elegance of French classicism, striking the perfect balance between tradition and modernity. —Anna Haines, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025

Rather the most notable trend was a retro classicism that made the event look like a cosplay convention for Olde Tinsel Town. —Vanessa Friedman, New York Times, 6 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

classicism

noun

clas·​si·​cism ˈklas-ə-ˌsiz-əm 

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)