VocabDictionary

maxims

/ˈmæksɪmz/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

Plural form of maxim: a short, pithy statement expressing a general truth, fundamental principle, or rule of conduct.

Example Sentences:
  • Benjamin Franklin's maxims, such as 'early to bed and early to rise,' remain popular today.
  • She lived her life by a few simple maxims focused on kindness and honesty.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “maxims”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'maxima (sententia)', meaning 'greatest proposition', from 'maximus', meaning 'greatest'. Originally referred to the most important or fundamental principles of a science or philosophy before broadening to mean general truths or rules of conduct.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'maximum wisdom' squeezed into a minimum number of words.

Common Collocations & Phrases
Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “maxims

1. What is the meaning of “maxims” in English?

In English, maxims (noun) is defined as: “Plural form of maxim: a short, pithy statement expressing a general truth, fundamental principle, or rule of conduct.”.

2. How do you use “maxims” in a sentence?

Benjamin Franklin's maxims, such as 'early to bed and early to rise,' remain popular today.

3. What are English synonyms of “maxims”?

Common synonyms include:adages,proverbs,aphorisms,sayings

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “maxims”?

Derived from the Latin 'maxima (sententia)', meaning 'greatest proposition', from 'maximus', meaning 'greatest'. Originally referred to the most important or fundamental principles of a science or philosophy before broadening to mean general truths or rules of conduct.