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.