canonization

Canonization most famously refers to the process by which the Catholic Church declares a deceased person a saint. However, it can also mean accepting something—like a book, movie, or idea—as truly important and as an established part of a tradition. Think of Sherlock Holmes: his original stories are considered "canon," and the act of solidifying that status within literature is a form of canonization.

The word comes from "canon," which originally meant a rule or standard, and eventually came to signify an official list. Over time, it broadened to mean something being officially accepted as authoritative, exemplary, or part of an accepted body of work. A film critic might say a director's early work is undergoing "canonization" as people increasingly recognize its lasting influence. You can even jokingly canonize your favorite pizza topping!

Canonization originally and most formally refers to the process by which the Catholic Church declares a deceased person a saint—officially recognizing their holiness and adding them to the list of saints venerated in the Church. This is a complex, multi-step procedure involving an investigation into the person's life, miracles attributed to their intercession, and a rigorous theological review. For example, the canonization of Pope John XXIII in 2014 was a significant event for Catholics worldwide.

However, "canonization" has expanded well beyond religious contexts. It now broadly refers to the act of officially accepting something as important, authoritative, or worthy of high status within a particular field or culture. This can apply to works of art, literature, historical figures, or even scientific theories.

Think about William Shakespeare: his plays have undergone canonization over centuries, becoming the cornerstones of English literature studied globally. Similarly, a film director whose work is consistently praised and analyzed might be described as undergoing "canonization" within the world of cinema. The term implies a process of establishing something as a standard or benchmark for others to follow.

You might also hear about "the canon" itself—referring to a body of works considered the most important in a particular field, such as "the Western literary canon." Canonization is the process by which things enter that esteemed group. So, whether it is declaring a saint or solidifying a masterpiece's place in history, canonization is about establishing authority and lasting significance.