canonical

1. Relating to, or conforming to a general rule or standard.

   synonyms:standardauthoritative

2. In theology, relating to the books accepted as genuine or authoritative by the Church.

   synonyms:scripturalreligious

The word 'canonical' comes from the Latin 'canonicus', which means 'according to rule'. This in turn derives from the Greek 'kanonikos', which means 'pertaining to a rule or standard'.

The term is often used in religious contexts, literature, and academia, particularly in discussions about standards and authoritative texts.

While not used in everyday conversation, 'canonical' is common in academic and formal writing, especially in literature and theology.

The canonical texts of the Bible have been studied for centuries by theologians.

In software development, following canonical practices ensures code quality and maintainability.

The canonical version of the story has been adapted into several films and plays.

The word 'canonical' has a rich history dating back to its Greek origins, where it referred to rules and standards. Today, it is used across various fields, from literature to theology, to denote what is considered authoritative or standard. Imagine a library where the most recognized and respected books are labeled as 'canonical'—these are the texts that everyone refers to as the gold standard. Whether discussing the canonical works of Shakespeare or the canonical laws of the Church, this word signifies respect for tradition and adherence to established norms.