Classy

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈklɑːsi/

Definitions

1. Demonstrating elegance and sophistication in demeanor or fashion
2. Showing a refined and high-quality taste that distinguishes itself from the ordinary
3. Exhibiting a smooth and polished appearance or manner that suggests sophistication ; possessing a cultivated and tasteful quality that sets it apart

Etymology: "Classy" is a plain formation: the noun "class" with the adjectival suffix "-y" added, so it means something like "having class." The noun itself comes from Latin "classis," a term for a division or group of people, and in English it came to denote a rank or grade within society before taking on the sense of quality or style. The adjective's shape is also tied to a twin. "Classic" entered English as a separate word from the same Latin source, and the two form what linguists call a piecewise doublet: they split off from one root and went different ways, with "classic" keeping a sense of top-rank excellence and "classy" narrowing toward the sense of refined, stylish elegance. The pair shows how one Latin idea of ranking can end up as both a scholarly标准 of merit and a compliment about someone's manner.

Synonyms: elegant, stylish, sophisticated, refined

Antonyms: tacky, uncouth