Definition of the word canonical

The word "canonical" originates from the Latin "canonicus," meaning "pertaining to a canon or rule." In Christianity, a canon refers to a authoritative text, such as the Bible, or a set of rules that are considered to be sacred or binding. The term was later adopted in the field of mathematics to describe a standard or accepted method or solution. In the 17th century, the term "canonical" began to be used in mathematics to describe a specific format or structure that is considered standard or official. For example, a "canonical form" in algebra is a standard way of expressing a mathematical expression. The word "canonical" has since been used in various fields, including computer science, philosophy, and literature, to describe something that is considered standard, authorized, or fundamental.