adage

[ ad-ij ]

noun

1. a traditional saying expressing a common experience or observation; proverb.

adage

/ ˈædɪdʒ /

noun

1. a traditional saying that is accepted by many as true or partially true; proverb

Other Words From

• a·da·gi·al [uh, -, dey, -jee-, uh, l], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of adage¹

1540–50; < French < Latin adagium, equivalent to ad- ad- + ag- (stem of āio I say) + -ium -ium

Word History and Origins

Origin of adage¹

C16: via Old French from Latin adagium; related to āio I say

Example Sentences

By sorting truth from deceit, holding the adage that humanity’s greatest weapon is the lie, the Sisterhood wields influence throughout the galactic Imperium by inserting their representatives at the side of every ruler.

From Salon

She cited an old adage: The House of Representatives is the hot tea, and the Senate is the saucer where things cool down.

From Los Angeles Times

Equally, Paul is a boxing novice and, as the adage goes, the last thing to go is power.

From BBC

In other words they, as in the time-honoured adage about Caesar’s wife, must be above suspicion.

From BBC

The young Lakers coach was about to use a well-worn coaching adage, chuckling at the absurdity of offering a “back in my day” to anyone listening.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aphorism
• axiom
• dictum
• maxim
• motto
• precept