Canonical: meaning, definitions and examples

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canonical

 

[kəˈnanɪk(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

In mathematics, canonical refers to a standard or unique representation of an object. It is often used to denote the simplest or most standard form of an object.

Synonyms

normal, standard, typical.

Examples of usage

  • The canonical form of a quadratic equation is ax^2 + bx + c.
  • In linear algebra, the canonical basis vectors are the unit vectors along the coordinate axes.
Context #2 | Adjective

computing

In computing, canonical is used to describe a standardized or official version of something, especially in relation to file paths, protocols, or data formats.

Synonyms

accepted, official, standardized.

Examples of usage

  • The canonical URL for a webpage is the preferred URL that should be used for indexing by search engines.
  • The canonical representation of a file path uses a specific syntax or format for consistency.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the Greek word 'kanon', meaning 'rule' or 'measuring stick'.
  • It initially referred to a set of texts or laws accepted as authoritative in religions or cultures.

Literature

  • In literature, canonical works are those that are widely read and taught, like Shakespeare's plays or classic novels.
  • The concept helps students and scholars focus on important texts that define literary traditions.

Theology

  • Within Christianity, the 'canonical' refers to the books included in the Bible, considered sacred and authoritative.
  • Different religions have their own canonical texts that are viewed as central to their beliefs and practices.

Culture

  • In pop culture, canonical can describe films or series that are recognized as part of an official storyline, like the 'Star Wars' films.
  • The concept of what is Canon can often lead to debates among fans about what should be considered part of the official narrative.

Science

  • In mathematics, 'canonical form' refers to a standard way of presenting certain types of equations or expressions.
  • This concept can simplify problem-solving by providing a consistent framework for analysis.

Translations

Translations of the word "canonical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 canônico

🇮🇳 प्रामाणिक

🇩🇪 kanonisch

🇮🇩 kanonik

🇺🇦 канонічний

🇵🇱 kanoniczny

🇯🇵 正典

🇫🇷 canonique

🇪🇸 canónico

🇹🇷 kanonik

🇰🇷 정경의

🇸🇦 قانوني

🇨🇿 kanonický

🇸🇰 kanonický

🇨🇳 规范的

🇸🇮 kanoničen

🇮🇸 kanónískur

🇰🇿 канондық

🇬🇪 კანონიკური

🇦🇿 kanonik

🇲🇽 canónico

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,239, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.