ca
non
Plural
canons
1
a deep, narrow ravine formed by the erosive action of a river in a dry region, often with steep sides
- The hikers descended into the canon, surrounded by towering cliffs.
- Flash floods carved the winding canon over centuries.
- The desert canon offered shade and shelter from the sun.
- Ancient petroglyphs were found along the walls of the canon.
- The river snaked through the canon, barely visible from above.
Synonyms:
2
generally accepted rules or principles, especially those that are considered as fundamental in a field of art or philosophy
A canon refers to a set of important rules, principles, or standards that are widely accepted in a particular field, such as art, literature, or philosophy. These accepted guidelines help determine what is considered essential or classic in that area. For example, in literature, the canon includes important works and authors that are recognized for their significant impact and quality. The concept of a canon helps shape what is studied, admired, and valued in that field, often influencing how new work is created, evaluated, and understood.
- In literature, Shakespeare's plays are often considered part of the canon, representing some of the most significant works in English literature.
- The principles of classical music theory form the canon that composers often adhere to when creating new pieces.
- The scientific method is a fundamental part of the canon of modern science, providing a framework for conducting experiments and analyzing data.
- The Impressionist painters challenged the traditional canon of art by experimenting with color, light, and brushwork in their works.
- In philosophy, the writings of Plato and Aristotle are foundational to the canon of Western thought, influencing generations of thinkers and scholars.
3
a polyphonic composition in which each voice or instrument enters successively, repeating the main theme after a fixed interval
A canon is a musical composition in which a melody is introduced by one voice or instrument and then imitated exactly by other voices or instruments, each starting at different times. This creates overlapping layers of the same melody, producing a complex and harmonious texture. Canons often follow strict rules of imitation, making them a showcase of compositional skill and creativity.
- Pachelbel's Canon in D is a famous example of this musical form.
- The choir performed a canon, layering the melody in perfect harmony.
- Each violin entered the canon one measure apart.
- The composer wrote a four-part canon based on a folk tune.
- The canon created a mesmerizing echo effect throughout the hall.
4
a recognized collection of authoritative books, texts, or works within a particular field or tradition, especially in religion
- Shakespeare's plays are considered part of the literary canon in English literature.
- The Bible and the Quran are foundational texts in the religious canon of Christianity and Islam, respectively.
- Bach's compositions are celebrated as part of the classical music canon.
- Darwin's "On the Origin of Species" is a seminal work in the scientific canon of evolutionary biology.
- "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald is often included in the canon of American literature.
5
a list of saints officially approved by the Roman Catholic Church
- Catholics often pray to saints in the canon for guidance.
- The Church updates the canon to include new saints.
- Many prayers honor saints from the canon.
- Priests invoke saints from the canon during prayers.
- The canon reflects the Church's tradition of holiness.
6
a clergy member who belongs to the chapter of a cathedral or collegiate church
- The canon led morning prayers in the cathedral.
- He was appointed canon after decades of service to the church.
- The canon oversaw the restoration of sacred relics.
- As a canon, she participated in the election of the new bishop.
- The chapter includes several canons with distinct roles.