How Do You Spell CANONICAL?

Pronunciation: [kɐnˈɒnɪkə͡l] (IPA)

The word "canonical" is an adjective that is commonly used in various fields such as literature, music, and religion. It refers to something that is considered to be authoritative or standard. The spelling of this word follows the pattern of the English language, with the emphasis on the second syllable, /kəˈnɒnɪkəl/. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound or a short "uh" sound, and the second syllable has the primary stress, marked by the symbol /ˈ/. The last syllable is pronounced with a short "uh" sound followed by a weak "l" sound, denoted as /kəl/.

CANONICAL Meaning and Definition

  1. Canonical is an adjective that pertains to the concept of being accepted or recognized as authentic, authoritative, or standard within a particular field, discipline, or context. It refers to something that is regarded as a fundamental or quintessential representation of a particular idea, principle, or body of work. The term is commonly used in various domains such as literature, theology, music, and computer science.

    In literature, canonical texts are those that are widely recognized as significant or foundational in a particular genre or time period. These texts often serve as a reference point for subsequent works and are considered to possess enduring value and influence. In theology, the canonical books of the Bible are those that are officially recognized as part of the sacred scripture by a religious community.

    In the realm of music, canonical compositions are regarded as exemplary and embodying the essential characteristics of a particular style or era. They are often studied and performed extensively and are considered essential repertoire in their respective genres.

    In computer science, canonical forms are standardized representations of data or algorithms that are considered the most efficient or optimal. They serve as the reference or benchmark for comparison and analysis.

    Overall, "canonical" signifies the recognized or authorized form or representation within a given context, embodying a certain level of authority, authenticity, importance, or universality.

  2. According to the rules or laws of the church.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CANONICAL

Etymology of CANONICAL

The word "canonical" is derived from the Latin term "canonicus", which in turn comes from the Greek word "kanonikos". The Greek word "kanonikos" referred to something that was "according to a rule" or "pertaining to a rule". It was primarily associated with ecclesiastical or religious rules and regulations. Over time, the word was adopted into various languages, including English, where it came to be used in a broader sense to describe anything that is considered authoritative, standard, or accepted as a genuine representation of an idea, principle, or body of work.

Similar spelling words for CANONICAL

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