Neoclassical: Meaning, Examples & Usage Guide

Meaning 1：new classical style (neoclassical)

neoclassical 🔊

/ˌniː.əʊˈklæs.ɪ.kəl/

adj.

It describes a style in art or building that brings back old Greek and Roman designs in a new way, often with simple and elegant features.

Neoclassical building with columns and pediment in sunlight

new classical style 🔊

➕

/njuː ˈklæs.ɪ.kəl staɪl/

adj.

Referring to a revival of classical Greek and Roman artistic and architectural forms, characterized by simplicity, symmetry, and grandeur, but adapted for modern contexts.

📁 Category：Culture & History 🔖 Level：intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From 'neo-' (new) + 'classical' (relating to ancient Greek/Roman style).

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'Neo' (new) + 'classical' = new take on ancient styles.

📖 Example

The neoclassical museum building, with its tall white columns and triangular roof, reminds visitors of ancient temples but feels modern. 🔊 The neoclassical museum building, with its tall white columns and triangular roof, reminds visitors of ancient temples but feels modern.

🔗 Collocations

neoclassical architecture – Architecture that revives classical Greek and Roman styles

neoclassical design – Design principles based on symmetry, proportion, and simplicity

neoclassical revival – The resurgence of classical forms in the 18th and 19th centuries

🔄 Synonyms

classical revival (n.) – A movement that brings back classical Greek or Roman styles

Greco-Roman (adj.) – Relating to both ancient Greek and Roman culture or art

Palladian (adj.) – Relating to the architectural style inspired by Andrea Palladio, which also draws from classical Roman forms

🚫 Antonyms

modernist (adj.) – Rejecting traditional forms in favor of innovation and minimal ornamentation

contemporary (adj.) – Belonging to the present time, often without historical references

avant-garde (adj.) – Experimental or innovative, especially in the arts, breaking away from classical conventions

🌱 Derivatives

neoclassicism (n.) – The revival of classical style in art, literature, and architecture

neoclassicist (n.) – An artist or architect who follows the neoclassical style

neoclassically (adv.) – In a manner that reflects neoclassical principles

📖 Cultural Story

Neoclassical style revived classical Greek/Roman forms in the 18th century, driven by discoveries like Pompeii. It emphasized symmetry and simplicity.