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noun

adage

AD-ihj

Adage (noun) means a short, well-known saying that expresses a general truth or piece of wisdom. Example: “The old adage "look before you leap" proved true once again.”

noun
1
A short, well-known saying that expresses a general truth or piece of wisdom.
"The old adage "look before you leap" proved true once again."
"As the adage goes, patience is a virtue."

How to use adage

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA traditional saying that captures a common piece of wisdom, similar to a proverb.

Easily confused with
adagio
Common pairings
old adage as the adage goes common adage

Word forms

adages plural

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The old _____ "look before you leap" proved true once again.

Etymology

Borrowed from Middle French adage, from Latin adagium.

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for adage

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Frequently asked questions

What does “adage” mean?

The word “adage” means a short, well-known saying that expresses a general truth or piece of wisdom. In plain terms, a traditional saying that captures a common piece of wisdom, similar to a proverb.

How do you pronounce “adage”?

“Adage” is pronounced AD-ihj (/ˈæd.ɪd͡ʒ/ in IPA).

How do you use “adage” in a sentence?

Here is “adage” used in a sentence: “The old adage "look before you leap" proved true once again.”

What part of speech is “adage”?

“Adage” is a noun.

Where does the word “adage” come from?

The word “adage” comes from Latin. Borrowed from Middle French adage, from Latin adagium.

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