The word "Canonically" is spelled as /kæˈnɒnɪkli/. The first syllable "ca-" is pronounced as /kæ/ with a short "a" sound. The "-non" syllable is pronounced as /ˈnɒn/ with a short "o" sound. The "-i" syllable is pronounced as /ɪ/ with a short "i" sound, and the last two syllables "cal-ly" are pronounced as /kli/ with a "k" sound and a "lee" sound at the end. The word "Canonically" means according to established rules or principles.
Canonically is an adverb that refers to something being in accordance with a canon or set of established rules, principles, or norms. It describes actions, concepts, or ideas that conform to a specific standard or authoritative guideline.
In a religious context, canonically often pertains to activities or beliefs that are in line with the rules and traditions of a particular religious doctrine or scripture. For instance, a religious leader who is canonically ordained is officially recognized by the religious institution and has undergone the necessary rituals or practices as prescribed by the religion.
Canonically can also be used to describe elements in literature or art that adhere to the accepted norms or conventions of a particular genre, movement, or period. In this sense, a canonically written novel would embody the characteristics, themes, and style typically associated with that specific genre or literary tradition.
Furthermore, canonically can be applied to legal matters, specifically within the context of laws or regulations that are officially recognized and accepted as valid in a particular jurisdiction. For example, when discussing the legitimacy of a marriage, being canonically married would mean that the union strictly adheres to the legal requirements and procedures as stipulated by the relevant governing body.
Ultimately, canonically implies a formal and recognized adherence to prescribed rules, principles, or standards, whether they are religious, literary, artistic, or legal in nature.
The word "canonically" is derived from the noun "canon". The etymology of the term "canon" originates from the Greek word "kanōn" (κανών), which originally meant "a straight rod" or "a measuring rod".
In ancient Greek, it began to be used metaphorically to refer to a rule or standard against which things could be measured. During the early Christian era, "canon" referred to the collection of authoritative religious texts that were considered "standard" or "official". This collection would later form the basis for the Bible.
From this religious context, "canon" evolved to be used more broadly to describe any rule, guideline, or set of principles that are considered authoritative or accepted as a standard within a particular field or community.