noun
aphorism
AF-uh-riz-um
Aphorism (noun) means a short, memorable saying that states a general truth. Example: “'Less is more' is an aphorism many designers like to quote.”
noun
1
A short, memorable saying that states a general truth.
"'Less is more' is an aphorism many designers like to quote."
"The book is full of witty aphorisms about work and friendship."
"He ended his speech with an old aphorism about patience."
2
A concise statement of a principle in a particular field of knowledge.
"The textbook opens with an aphorism that sums up the field."
"Doctors once learned medicine through short aphorisms."
"She wrote each principle of the method as a brief aphorism."
How to use aphorism
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA brief, wise saying that sums up a truth.
When to use it
It is a somewhat literary word, more often written than spoken.
Memory tip
Related words are aphorist, a person who writes aphorisms, and aphoristic.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
a famous aphorism
an old aphorism
witty aphorism
the aphorism goes
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'Less is more' is an _____ many designers like to quote.
Etymology
The word came into Late Middle English from Middle French, from Medieval Latin, from Ancient Greek aphorismós, meaning limitation, distinction or definition. That Greek word comes from a verb meaning to mark off a boundary or to define.
Related words
Rhymes for aphorism
See all rhymes for aphorism →Frequently asked questions
What is an aphorism?
An aphorism is a concise, memorable expression of a general truth or principle.
What is the difference between an aphorism and a proverb?
Both are short sayings, but an aphorism is often credited to a particular writer or thinker, while a proverb is traditional folk wisdom.
How do you pronounce aphorism?
In British English it is pronounced AF-uh-riz-um, with the stress on the first syllable.
What is the meaning of aphorism?
"aphorism" (noun) means a short, memorable saying that states a general truth.
