canon

Definition

A generally accepted principle; a rule.

Etymology

From Middle English canoun, from Old French canon and Old English canon, both from Latin canōn, from Ancient Greek κανών (kanṓn, “measuring rod, standard”), akin to κάννα (kánna, “reed”), from Semitic (compare Hebrew קָנֶה (qane, “reed”) and Arabic قَنَاة (qanāh, “reed”)). Doublet of qanun. See also cane, cannon, canyon, canal.

Example Sentences

• "The trial must proceed according to the canons of law."
• "Or that the Everlasting had not fixed His canon 'gainst self-slaughter."
• "the Canon of Polykleitos"