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 Word Forms

• adagial 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

"To tailor an old adage: if you try to annoy nobody you don't excite anybody," is how he puts it.

From BBC

“But the old adage — iron sharpens iron. I do think we’re better for the adversity ... I’m excited for what’s to come.”

From Los Angeles Times

There's an old adage in American politics that says people "vote with their pocketbooks" - and turn against politicians if they appear to harm their finances.

From BBC

A winning mentality attuned to the old adage of another managerial great, Brian Clough's "it only takes a second to score a goal".

From BBC

The all-purpose adage offering optimism — and sometimes pessimism — to those confronting a crisis head-on is: “This too shall pass.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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