Meaning of the word canon in English

What does canon mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

canon

US /ˈkæn.ən/

UK /ˈkæn.ən/

a general law, rule, principle, or criterion by which something is judged

Example:

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The decision was made according to the established canon of the organization.

•

He adheres strictly to the canons of good taste.

Synonym:

principle rule law criterion standard

a collection or list of sacred books accepted as genuine

Example:

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The biblical canon includes the Old and New Testaments.

•

Scholars debate the inclusion of certain texts in the literary canon.

Synonym:

corpus collection body of works scriptures texts

the works of a writer that are accepted as authentic

Example:

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Shakespeare's canon includes 37 plays.

•

Many literary critics study the author's entire canon.

Synonym:

corpus oeuvre works writings output

a piece of music in which a melody is imitated by one or more parts at different intervals

Example:

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Pachelbel's Canon in D is a very famous classical piece.

•

The choir sang a beautiful canon.

Synonym:

round fugue polyphony

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Related Word:

canonical canonize