The term canonization denotes the process by which the Church formally proclaims a Christian to be a saint; placing their name into the canon (list) or ranks of saints. 

The word canonization is derived from the Greek word kanon, which means “a rule or standard of measure.” Basically then, when the Church canonizes one of its faithful as a saint, we proclaim them “holy” and set them up as a person of God who we should try and emulate or strive to “measure up to.” It must be noted, however, that the service of canonization does not actually make a saint, it merely establishes or sanctions a widely known fact, publically and for all to see.