/ English Dictionary |
CANONICAL
Pronunciation (US): | (GB): |
I. (adjective)
Sense 1
Meaning:
Conforming to orthodox or recognized rules
Example:
the drinking of cocktails was as canonical a rite as the mixing
Synonyms:
canonic; canonical; sanctioned
Classified under:
Similar:
orthodox (adhering to what is commonly accepted)
Sense 2
Meaning:
Reduced to the simplest and most significant form possible without loss of generality
Example:
a canonical syllable pattern
Synonyms:
basic; canonic; canonical
Classified under:
Similar:
standard (established or well-known or widely recognized as a model of authority or excellence)
Sense 3
Meaning:
Of or relating to or required by canon law
Synonyms:
canonic; canonical
Classified under:
Relational adjectives (pertainyms)
Pertainym:
canon law (the body of codified laws governing the affairs of a Christian church)
Sense 4
Meaning:
Example:
a canonical book of the Christian New Testament
Synonyms:
canonic; canonical
Classified under:
Relational adjectives (pertainyms)
Pertainym:
canon (a rule or especially body of rules or principles generally established as valid and fundamental in a field of art or philosophy)
Derivation:
canon (a collection of books accepted as holy scripture especially the books of the Bible recognized by any Christian church as genuine and inspired)