maxim
UK[ˈmæk.sɪm]US[ˈmæk.sɪm]
n
A short statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct.
Etymology
The word 'maxim' entered English in the late 15th century from the Middle French 'maxime', which itself derives from the Medieval Latin 'maxima (propositio)', meaning 'greatest (proposition)'. This Latin term originates from 'maximus', the superlative form of 'magnus' (great, large). The conceptual link lies in the idea of a principle being of the greatest importance or authority—a supreme rule. Thus, the journey from the Proto-Indo-European root meg- (meaning great) through Latin gives us the modern abstract meaning of a concise, authoritative statement of a fundamental truth or guiding principle.
Analysis
The word is a simplex loanword from Latin. It is not productively formed from smaller morphemes in modern English.
Examples
"As a general maxim, it is wise to look before you leap."
"Her personal maxim was to treat others as she wished to be treated."
"The old maxim 'haste makes waste' often proves true in complex projects."