Understanding the Word: Canonize
Have you ever met someone so kind or admirable that you felt they could do absolutely no wrong? Perhaps you view a historical figure or a family member as a perfect human being. In English, when we elevate someone to this status—either formally or figuratively—we use the word canonize. While it has deep roots in religious history, it has evolved to describe how we view people in our everyday lives.
The Two Meanings of Canonize
The verb canonize carries two distinct, yet related, meanings depending on the context.
1. The Religious Definition
The original and most formal use of canonize refers to the Roman Catholic Church. In this context, it is a specific, official process. The Church investigates the life of a deceased person and, if it is determined that they lived a life of extraordinary holiness and performed miracles, they are officially declared a saint. They are then placed in the canon, or the official list, of recognized saints.
- After years of investigation and evidence of miracles, the Pope decided to canonize the missionary.
- It is rare for the Church to canonize someone so soon after their passing.
2. The Figurative Definition
In casual conversation, canonize is used metaphorically. When we canonize someone, we put them on a pedestal. We choose to ignore their flaws and remember them as perfect, holy, or beyond reproach. This often happens after someone dies, as we tend to highlight their best qualities and "sanctify" their memory.
- Society tends to canonize legendary musicians after they pass away, forgetting the mistakes they made during their youth.
- He canonizes his grandfather, telling everyone that he never raised his voice or acted selfishly.
Grammar and Usage Patterns
Canonize is a regular verb. You can use it in various tenses, though it most commonly appears in the past participle or the present tense:
- Present tense: "Many critics canonize the director for his contributions to cinema."
- Past tense: "They canonized the hero shortly after the war ended."
- Passive voice: "She was canonized for her lifelong dedication to the poor."
Note that the word is almost always followed by the direct object (the person being honored). You canonize someone.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake is confusing canonize with canon. Remember that canon (with one "n" in the middle) is a noun referring to a rule, a law, or an accepted body of works (like the literary canon). Canonize is the action verb. Another mistake is using the word to mean simply "to praise." Canonize is much stronger than that; it implies treating someone as if they were a saint, not just complimenting them.
FAQ
Is canonize spelled with a "z" or an "s"?
In American English, it is spelled canonize. In British English, you will frequently see it spelled canonise. Both are correct depending on which regional standard you follow.
Can you canonize a living person?
Formally, no. The Roman Catholic Church only canonizes those who have passed away. Figuratively, however, people sometimes say that society has "canonized" a living celebrity or political figure, implying that the public treats them as infallible.
What is the difference between being honored and being canonized?
Honoring someone is a general act of respect. Canonizing someone is an extreme form of respect that implies the person has reached a level of perfection or sainthood where they are no longer viewed as having human flaws.
Conclusion
Whether you are talking about the historical traditions of the Church or describing how we create modern-day idols, canonize is a powerful word. It helps us express that special kind of reverence we feel for people we deem truly exceptional. By understanding its origins and its figurative usage, you can add a sophisticated touch to the way you describe your heroes and historical figures.