canon
7 synonyms for canon, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A collection of works or rules officially accepted as genuine or authoritative, such as the accepted body of a writer's work or a set of religious texts.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
How to use canon
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
literary canon
canon law
part of the canon
Etymology
From Latin canonicus, ultimately from Greek kanon, "rule" or "standard."
Full origin of canon →Frequently asked questions
What does “canon” mean?
The word “canon” means a collection of works or rules officially accepted as genuine or authoritative, such as the accepted body of a writer's work or a set of religious texts. In plain terms, an officially accepted body of work or rules, or a type of cathedral clergyman.
How do you use “canon” in a sentence?
Here is “canon” used in a sentence: “Shakespeare's plays form part of the Western literary canon.”
What part of speech is “canon”?
“Canon” is a noun.
Where does the word “canon” come from?
The word “canon” comes from Latin. From Latin canonicus, ultimately from Greek kanon, "rule" or "standard.".
Is “canon” a common word?
“Canon” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “canon” have?
“Canon” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a collection of works or rules officially accepted as genuine or authoritative, such as the accepted body of a writer's work or a set of religious texts.
What is the difference between "canon" and "cannon"?
A "canon" with one N is an accepted body of works or rules, or a clergyman on a cathedral's staff; a "cannon" with two Ns is a large gun. They sound alike but are unrelated in meaning, and mixing up the spelling is a common mistake.
Is "canon" only a religious word?
No. "Canon" has several senses: an accepted set of religious texts or church laws, a clergyman who serves at a cathedral, and, more broadly, the accepted body of a writer's work or any set of authoritative rules.
