canonical

adjective

ca·​non·​i·​cal kə-ˈnä-ni-kəl 

1

: of, relating to, or forming a canon

canonical scriptures

2

: conforming to a general rule or acceptable procedure : orthodox

His proposals were generally accepted as canonical.

3

: of or relating to a clergyperson who is a canon

4

: reduced to the canonical form

a canonical matrix

canonically

kə-ˈnä-ni-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of canonical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Works once regarded as marginal or difficult have been transformed into ultra-expensive trophies as wealthy collectors compete for a limited supply of canonical art. — George Nelson, ARTnews.com, 25 Aug. 2026

According to Bakes, Soto received an identical copy of the canonical petition but declined to investigate the school. — Alula Alderson, Sacbee.com, 23 Aug. 2026

The experience is…less fun, although bad film aficionados know that some level of tedium is inherent to almost all of the most canonical worst movies ever. — Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 21 Aug. 2026

McKnight’s decision was based on the independent investigation and a canonical assessment that was made following the investigation, the archdiocese’s announcement said. — Judy L. Thomas, Kansas City Star, 20 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see canon entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing canonical

• canonical form
• canonical hour

Rhymes for canonical

• ironical
• chronicle
• conical
• monocle

Kids Definition

canonical

adjective

ca·​non·​i·​cal kə-ˈnän-i-kəl 

1

: relating to or allowed by church law

2

: following a general rule or accepted procedure

canonically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb