Maxim
WordNet
noun
(1) A saying that is widely accepted on its own merits
(2) English inventor (born in the United States) who invented the Maxim gun that was used in World War I (1840-1916)
WiktionaryText
Etymology
From , from , from , shortening of + , literally, "greatest premise".
Noun
- A precept; a succinct statement or observation of a fundamental principle, general truth, or rule of conduct
- 1776, Adam Smith, Wealth of Nations, page 768
- In every age and country of the world men must have attended to the characters, designs, and actions of one another, and many reputable rules and maxims for the conduct of human life, must have been laid down and approved of by common consent.
- 1776, Adam Smith, Wealth of Nations, page 768
Synonyms
aphorism, cliche enthymeme, proverb, saying- See also Wikisaurus:saying