aphorism
UK: ˈæf.ər.ɪ.zəm | US: ˈæf.ə.rɪ.zəm
n. a concise statement of a principle or truth; a pithy maxim
n. a terse formulation of a doctrine or observation
aphorism = aphor<to define> + ism<noun suffix>
- aphor (from Greek aphorizein <to define, mark off>)
- ism (noun-forming suffix indicating a practice, system, or doctrine)
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Greek aphorismos (a definition or distinction), itself from aphorizein (to mark boundaries, define). The term entered Late Latin as aphorismus and later Middle French aphorisme, retaining its core meaning of a concise, authoritative statement. The morpheme aphor- reflects the act of delineation, while -ism transforms it into a noun denoting a structured observation. Historically, Hippocrates' medical writings (Aphorisms) popularized the term as a format for distilled wisdom.
"The ancient physician Hippocrates began his famous treatise with the aphorism, 'Life is short, art is long.'"
"Her speech was filled with witty aphorisms that captivated the audience."
"An aphorism differs from a proverb in being more philosophical than folkloric."
"He scribbled an aphorism in the margin of his notebook: 'To understand is to forgive.'"
"The poet’s work is celebrated for its sharp aphorisms about human nature."