canonical

American  

[kuh-non-i-kuhl] / kəˈnɒn ɪ kəl /

adjective

1. relating to, established by, or conforming to a canon or canons

2. included in the canon of the Bible.

3. authorized; recognized; accepted.

   canonical works.

4. Mathematics. (of an equation, coordinate, etc.) in simplest or standard form.

5. following the pattern of a musical canon.

6. Linguistics. (of a form or pattern) characteristic, general or basic.

   the canonical form of the past tense;

   a canonical syllable pattern.

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noun

1. canonicals, garments prescribed by canon law for clergy when officiating.

canonical British  

/ kəˈnɒnɪkəl /

adjective

1. belonging to or included in a canon of sacred or other officially recognized writings

2. belonging to or in conformity with canon law

3. according to recognized law; accepted

4. music in the form of a canon

5. of or relating to a cathedral chapter

6. of or relating to a canon (clergyman)

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Other Word Forms

• canonically adverb
• supercanonical adjective

Etymology

Origin of canonical

First recorded in 1150–1200; Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin canōnicālis, equivalent to canōnic(us) ( canon ² ) + -ālis -al ¹

Example Sentences

She originated the canonical reality series’ concept, assembled its core cast and anchored its production for 23 cycles, which first aired on UPN before it became the CW.

From Los Angeles Times

The construction board, a private canonical foundation, had intended to complete work on the Sagrada Familia, considered the world's most famous unfinished building, this year.

From Barron's

Perhaps Mr. Pinsker grants Lincoln too little credit for inspiring voters with his soaring oratory; even the canonical speeches are analyzed here primarily for political messaging.

From The Wall Street Journal

After meeting bassist Robbie Shakespeare in 1972, the pair built distinct rhythms such as the insistent “Rockers” groove that bolstered canonical reggae tracks.

From Los Angeles Times

The film, which premiered January 9, nods to Rob Reiner’s canonical romantic comedy “When Harry Met Sally.”

From Salon