maxim
5 synonyms for maxim, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A short, memorable statement that expresses a general truth or rule for behaviour.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use maxim
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
an old maxim
a maxim goes
live by a maxim
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman and Middle French maxime, going back to Late Latin maxima ("greatest premise"), from Latin maximus ("greatest").
Full origin of maxim →Frequently asked questions
What does “maxim” mean?
The word “maxim” means a short, memorable statement that expresses a general truth or rule for behaviour. In plain terms, a short saying that sums up a rule of good sense or good conduct.
How do you pronounce “maxim”?
“Maxim” is pronounced MAK-sihm (/ˈmæk.sɪm/ in IPA).
How do you use “maxim” in a sentence?
Here is “maxim” used in a sentence: “"Honesty is the best policy" is a maxim most of us grew up hearing.”
What is another word for “maxim”?
Words with a similar meaning to “maxim” include cliche, enthymeme, proverb and saying.
What part of speech is “maxim”?
“Maxim” is a noun.
Where does the word “maxim” come from?
The word “maxim” comes from Late Latin. From Anglo-Norman and Middle French maxime, going back to Late Latin maxima ("greatest premise"), from Latin maximus ("greatest").
Is “maxim” a common word?
“Maxim” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “maxim” have?
“Maxim” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a short, memorable statement that expresses a general truth or rule for behaviour.
