canonico

Canonico is an Italian term with several related senses, rooted in ecclesiastical usage. Etymologically, it derives from Latin canonicus, via Greek kanonikos, originally meaning “pertaining to a rule or standard” and later “pertaining to the body of canons.”

As a noun, canonico refers to a member of the chapter of canons in a cathedral or collegiate church. Canons are clerics who participate in the governance of the church and in its daily liturgy, often holding specific offices or prebends depending on local tradition and rite.

As an adjective, canonico denotes something canonical or lawfully recognized according to church rules. In Catholic and other Christian contexts, phrases such as diritto canonico (canon law) and testi canonici (biblical canons) reflect this usage, distinguishing official norms from customary practices or apocryphal materials.

In contemporary usage, canonico can describe elements that belong to a recognized canon of a literary, film, or media work, i.e., officially part of the original story’s framework. The term is frequently contrasted with non-canonical or fanon in discussions of plot, character, or lore.

Canonico is also a surname in Italy, and may indicate historic association with a canon or clerical office. It appears in various regions and among Italian-speaking communities.