what is canon

Canon usually means an authoritative set of accepted works, rules, or standards. In fandoms, it means the official story or facts that are considered “real” within that universe.

Quick Scoop

• General meaning: a body of accepted rules, texts, or works.
• In books and art: the officially recognized works of an author or tradition.
• In religion: sacred texts or church rules that are formally accepted.
• In fandoms: the official storyline, as opposed to fan theories or alternate versions.

Example

If a movie sequel changes a character’s backstory, fans may ask whether that new detail is canon or just a retcon/fan interpretation. If it appears in the official source, it is canon.

Common Uses

• Literature: “the Shakespeare canon” means the works generally accepted as Shakespeare’s.
• Music: a canon is also a musical form where one melody is repeated by another voice after a delay.
• Religion: canons are accepted church laws or scripture.

Bottom line

Canon = officially recognized and accepted. In internet and fandom discussions, it almost always means “the official version of the story.”

Information gathered from public sources on the internet and portrayed here.