1
as in traditional
based on customs usually handed down from a previous generation
the classical preparation of a ham for Easter
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in authoritative
being the most accurate and apparently thorough
a writer celebrated for his classical profiles of eminent Victorians
Synonyms & Similar Words
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of classical
Falke is partial to their selection of French portico clocks: 19th-century timepieces with classical columns and gilded pendulums.
—
David Hudnall, Kansas City Star, 16 June 2025
The Enterprise Problem Quantum Computing Must Solve Today's most pressing business challenges push classical computing to its limits.
—Steve McDowell, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025
In other words, this is quantum supremacy: the point where a quantum computer can perform a calculation that is practically impossible for any classical computer to do in a reasonable amount of time.
—John Koetsier, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
Her female figures were large in their art-historical scope as well as in their scale, evoking not just the classical tradition but also canonical modernist works by Pablo Picasso and Willem de Kooning.
—Rebecca Mead, New Yorker, 9 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for classical
David Hudnall, Kansas City Star, 16 June 2025
The Enterprise Problem Quantum Computing Must Solve Today's most pressing business challenges push classical computing to its limits.
—Steve McDowell, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025
In other words, this is quantum supremacy: the point where a quantum computer can perform a calculation that is practically impossible for any classical computer to do in a reasonable amount of time.
—John Koetsier, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
Her female figures were large in their art-historical scope as well as in their scale, evoking not just the classical tradition but also canonical modernist works by Pablo Picasso and Willem de Kooning.
—Rebecca Mead, New Yorker, 9 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for classical
Recent Examples of Synonyms for classical
Adjective
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The traditional approach of training a robot on action with reinforcement was very slow, but generative AI allows for much greater generalization.—
ArsTechnica,
ArsTechnica,
24 June 2025
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AccuWeather meteorologist Tom Kines explained that the AccuWeather RealFeel Temperature factors in more variables than the traditional heat index, which considers only air temperature and relative humidity.—
Joe Edwards,
MSNBC Newsweek,
24 June 2025
Adjective
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Conley has been sought out by Governor Slaton (a gently authoritative Chris Shyer), who has reopened the investigation at Lucille’s urging only to uncover contradictions and inconsistencies in the case.—
Charles McNulty,
Los Angeles Times,
20 June 2025
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Others believe Wilcox to be among the most impressive operators at his level, appreciating his unassuming but authoritative manner.—
Laurie Whitwell,
New York Times,
20 June 2025
Adjective
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There is of course a social and political undercurrent to the movie, as is customary for Magliano, going against the grain and reclaiming time to pause and reflect.—
Martino Carrera,
Footwear News,
20 June 2025
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Newsom has said he wasn't consulted before Trump decided to take control of the Guard, as is customary.—
Larry Kaplow,
NPR,
19 June 2025
Adjective
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Numerous artists have taken part over the past two decades, with the likes of Billie Eilish, Childish Gambino, Arctic Monkeys, and more reinventing classic tracks in the process.—
Tyler Jenke,
Billboard,
20 June 2025
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There’s that classic video of Tom Hallion (long-time umpire) and Terry Collins (the Mets’ manager at the time).—
Rustin Dodd,
New York Times,
20 June 2025
Adjective
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The report published by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute comes against the backdrop of China's military buildup—both conventional and nuclear.—
Ryan Chan,
MSNBC Newsweek,
17 June 2025
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The final decade of the 20th Century was the beginning of the SUV boom, with automakers across the spectrum expanding their lineups to include machines that blended the height and four-wheel-drive capability of pickups with the roomy cabins and comfortable rides of conventional cars.—
Will Sabel Courtney,
Robb Report,
17 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Classical.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/classical. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.
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