noun
- a person who specializes in or is an expert in canon law
Usage: formal; legal
Examples
- The canonist advised the bishop on matters of church law.
- She studied for years to become a respected canonist.
- The Vatican consulted several canonists before making the decision.
- As a canonist, he was well-versed in ecclesiastical regulations.
- The canonist explained the complex rules governing religious orders.
- Medieval canonists helped shape church doctrine and practice.