nonclassical

American  

[non-klas-i-kuhl] / nɒnˈklæs ɪ kəl /

adjective

1. not classical or contrary to classical precepts.

2. Physics. pertaining to a law, theory, or observation that cannot be expressed or understood in terms of Newtonian physics.

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Other Word Forms

• nonclassically
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of nonclassical

First recorded in 1925–30; non- + classical

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

nonclassical

Rather than constructing cat-like states from coherent-state wave packets, the researchers developed a technique that combines a broad range of quantum components that are already highly nonclassical.

From Science Daily ● Jun. 15, 2026

Phil appointment also was heralded by nonclassical musicians — including songwriter-guitarist Yordano and Venezuelan singer Nella Rojas, who worked with Dudamel on the 2020 documentary “Free Color.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 8, 2023

And the engineers who worked on “Chloë and the Next 20th Century,” the latest album from onetime Seattleite and current Sub Pop star Father John Misty, are up for best engineered album, nonclassical.

From Seattle Times ● Feb. 4, 2023

And nonclassical sounds find their way in — little reminders of a world outside the concert hall and traces of the humanity often left behind in the commandeering conductor’s wake.

From Washington Post ● Oct. 14, 2022

Will future juries give adequate attention to nonclassical submissions — or have the knowledge to properly distinguish a work of the caliber of “DAMN.” from other hip-hop entries?

From New York Times ● Apr. 11, 2019