Definition
A canon is a set of rules or principles that are generally accepted as valid and authoritative, often in the context of a particular field, such as literature, music, or religion. It can also refer to a collection of texts or works that are considered to be of great importance or significance within a given field.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Noun
Synonyms
Rule, principle, standard, criterion, guideline, law, tenet, code, doctrine
Antonyms
Non-canonical, unconventional, unorthodox, heretical
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | canonist, canonization, canonisations, canons, canonizations, canon_laws, canon, canonists, canon_law, canonisation |
| Verb | canonized, canonise, canonizing, canonizes, canonize |
| Adjective | canonist, canonic, canonical |
| Adverb | canonically |
Example Sentences
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The works of Shakespeare are considered to be part of the literary canon of the English language.
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The Council of Nicea in 325 CE established the canon of the Christian Bible, which includes both the Old and New Testaments.
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In the field of music, Johann Sebastian Bach is often considered to be a foundational figure in the canon of classical music.
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The book was considered a classic of the genre and was included in the literary canon.
Usage
The word “canon” has a variety of meanings and uses, depending on the context. One common usage of the word is in reference to a collection of works that are considered to be authoritative or official within a particular field or subject. For example, in literature, the “canon” may refer to a set of classic works that are widely accepted as being important and influential in the field. In music, the “canon” may refer to a body of works that are considered to be the most important and representative of a particular style or era.
Another usage of the word “canon” is in reference to a set of principles or rules that are considered to be fundamental or essential within a particular system or organization. For example, in the legal field, the “canon of ethics” may refer to a set of ethical principles that are widely accepted as being essential to the practice of law. In religious contexts, the “canon” may refer to a set of official texts or scriptures that are considered to be authoritative within a particular faith.
The word “canon” can also be used as a prefix or suffix to modify other words. For example, the prefix “canon-” may be added to a word to indicate that it is part of a set of official or authoritative works or principles, such as in the term “canon law” in the Catholic Church. The suffix “-canon” may be added to a word to indicate that it is part of a larger set or body of works, such as in the term “non-canonical” to describe a work that is not considered part of the official or authoritative set of works within a particular field or subject.