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Synonyms

classy

American  
[klas-ee, klah-see] / ˈklæs i, ˈklɑ si /

adjective

Informal.
classier, classiest
  1. of high class, rank, or grade; stylish; admirably smart; elegant.


classy British  
/ ˈklɑːsɪ /

adjective

  1. informal elegant; stylish

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

Etymology

Origin of classy

First recorded in 1890–95; class + -y 1

Explanation

On a first date, make a good impression. If you're the one choosing the location, pick a classy spot, one that's stylish and sophisticated — or that at least doesn't have a drive-through window. Classy is a word used to describe people, places or things, that have a lot of "class." But a classy person isn't just someone who wears expensive clothes. Classy can also refer to someone who puts a high standard on the way he behaves. A classy gentleman opens doors for ladies. A classy gesture is something someone does that reflects this high standard of behavior. Giving up your seat to a pregnant lady on the bus: a classy gesture.

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Vocabulary lists containing classy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

You’re barely going to have any cash left over for one of their classy $60 garden gnomes.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

Opener Brian Bennett scored a classy unbeaten 64 to guide Zimbabwe to 169-2 in their T20 World Cup clash against injury-hit Australia at Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium on Friday.

From Barron's • Feb. 13, 2026

A classy centre, with physicality, quick feet and playmaking ability, he has also turned out on the wing for English champions Bath.

From BBC • Feb. 4, 2026

I think JJ Redick is an excellent coach and a classy individual, but one thing he does during a game drives me nuts.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 31, 2026

Once Mom told Yum Li that he could have a big classy restaurant in Manhattan if he wanted to.

From "Liar & Spy" by Rebecca Stead

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