canonize

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can·on·ize / ˈkanəˌnīz/ • v. [tr.] (often be canonized) (in the Roman Catholic Church) officially declare (a dead person) to be a saint: he was the last English saint to be canonized prior to the Reformation. ∎ fig. regard as being above reproach or of great significance: we have canonized freedom of speech. ∎  accept into the literary or artistic canon. ∎  sanction by Church authority.DERIVATIVES: can·on·i·za·tion / ˌkanənəˈzāshən/ n.