adj. & n.
--adj.
1. a according to or ordered by canon law. b included in the canon of Scripture.
2 authoritative, standard, accepted.
3 of a cathedral chapter or a member of it.
4 Mus. in canon form.
--n. (in pl.) the canonical dress of the clergy.
Phrases and idioms:
canonical hours Eccl. the times fixed for a formal set of prayers or for the celebration of marriage.
Derivatives:
canonically adv.
Etymology: med.L canonicalis (as CANONIC)