locus classicus

noun locus clas·si·cus \-ˈkla-si-kəs\

plural loci clas·si·ci \-ˈkla-sə-ˌsī, -ˌkī, -ˌkē\

Definition of LOCUS CLASSICUS

: a passage that has become a standard for the elucidation of a word or subject

: a classic case or example

New Latin

First Known Use: 1853

Next Word in the Dictionary: locus coeruleusPrevious Word in the Dictionary: locusAll Words Near: locus classicus

What made you want to look up locus classicus? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears