Definition of "canonize" in English

verb

1. (chiefly Roman Catholicism) To declare (a deceased person) as a saint, and enter them into the canon of saints.

   • Thomas Becket was canonized in 1173.

2. (figurative) To regard as a saint; to glorify, to exalt to the highest honour.

3. (Christianity) To formally declare (a piece of religious writing) to be part of the biblical canon.

4. (by extension) To regard (an artistic or written work or its creator) as one of a group that are representative of a particular field.

5. (chiefly Christianity) Especially of a church: to give official approval to; to authorize, to sanction.