Canonical

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/kəˈnɒnɪkəl/

Definitions

1. (adjective) Relating to or following the canon, a general law or rule, especially in a religious or legal context.

2. (adjective) Accepted as authoritative or essential, particularly in the context of a body of knowledge, literature, or art.

3. (adjective) Conforming to an established or recognized standard, model, or principle.

Usage Examples

• The canonical texts of the Bible are considered sacred by many Christians.
• Shakespeare's works are regarded as canonical in English literature.
• The company follows a canonical approach to software development, using tried and tested methods.

Etymology

The word "canonical" comes from the Latin "canonicus," meaning "pertaining to a canon." The term originally referred to rules or laws, particularly in religious or church contexts, and has since expanded to mean anything that is recognized as being of fundamental importance or authority.

Synonyms

• Authoritative
• Traditional
• Standard
• Accepted
• Recognized

Antonyms

• Unconventional
• Nontraditional
• Irregular
• Unorthodox
• Nonstandard

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In different regions, the pronunciation of "canonical" may vary slightly. In American English, the emphasis tends to fall on the second syllable, while in British English, the stress is more balanced between the first and second syllables.

Historical Usage

The word "canonical" has its roots in the Christian church, where it originally referred to the laws and decrees governing church practices. Over time, the meaning expanded to refer to anything that conformed to established rules or principles, including literature, art, and academic works.

Cultural Nuances

The idea of "canonical" works plays a significant role in cultural institutions such as literature and the arts, where certain texts, pieces of music, or visual art are deemed essential to understanding the tradition. Similarly, in religious traditions, canonical texts are considered authoritative and are followed as central tenets of the faith.

More Information

The term "canonical" often implies authority and reverence for established norms. In addition to religious law, it can refer to the universally accepted standards within a variety of fields, such as literature, music, and science. A canonical work is one that is considered essential to understanding a given tradition or discipline. Over time, the term has gained wide usage in secular contexts, signifying works or principles that are universally recognized and accepted as foundational.