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

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

Two Australian mathematicians say they have debunked an old adage, that if given an infinite amount of time, a monkey pressing keys on a typewriter would eventually write the complete works of William Shakespeare.

From BBC

Incidentally, it’s not the first time the adage — believed to be a witticism about Parker’s own romantic foibles — has been used on the show.

From Los Angeles Times

Republicans have repeatedly ignored that adage, as evident in their demolition of Roe vs.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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