adage
UK[ˈæd.ɪdʒ]US[ˈæd.ɪdʒ]
n
a well-known phrase expressing a general truth or piece of wisdom.
Etymology
the word 'adage' entered english in the mid-16th century from middle french, which itself borrowed it from latin 'adagium', meaning 'proverb, saying'. the latin term is a compound, formed from 'ad-' (meaning 'to') and the root of 'aio' (meaning 'i say'). this literal sense of 'something said toward (a point)' evolved into the meaning of a traditional, often metaphorical saying that conveys a common observation or truth. its journey from a literal latin phrase to an abstract english noun for a pithy maxim illustrates the process by which specific expressions become generalized categories of wisdom.
Analysis
this word is a simplex loanword from french. it is not productively formed from smaller, recognizable morphemes within modern english spelling.
Examples
the old adage "haste makes waste" often proves true in complex projects.
he justified his cautious approach by citing the financial adage, "never lose money."
despite technological advances, the adage "practice makes perfect" remains relevant.