canonical

/kəˈnɑnəkəl/

If something's canonical, it follows a principle or rule, usually in a religious or church-related situation. It is also used in mathematics, music and can refer to something reduced to its most basic form.

The word canonical is from the root canon, with both evolving from the Latin cononicus, or "according to rule," a meaning applied to religion during the Middle Ages. However, the definition of "rules" also applies in other areas as well. In mathematics, the word is used to describe an equation reduced to its most basic form. In canonical music, a melody line is repeated at intervals throughout a piece. Perhaps the most familiar of these is Pachebel's "Canon in D."

Definitions of canonical

1. adjective

   conforming to orthodox or recognized rules
   synonyms: canonic, sanctioned

   mainstream, orthodox

   adhering to what is commonly accepted
2. adjective

   appearing in a biblical canon
   “a canonical book of the Christian New Testament”

   synonyms: canonic
3. adjective

   of or relating to or required by canon law
   synonyms: canonic
4. adjective

   reduced to the simplest and most significant form possible without loss of generality
   “a canonical syllable pattern”

   synonyms: basic, canonic

   standard

   established or well-known or widely recognized as a model of authority or excellence