adage
[ad-ij]
- a traditional saying expressing a common experience or observation; proverb.
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Origin of adage
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for adages
Historical Examples
"Avoid a man who neither drinks nor smokes," was one of Don's adages.
The Orchard of TearsSax Rohmer
He speaks to the same purpose in the Adages, c. 189, as Jortin observes.
Curiosities of Literature, Vol. 1 (of 3)Isaac D'Israeli
As an example of Palmer's exposition, we will give that based on two adages of like import.
Proverb LoreF. Edward Hulme
The adages or proverbs of all nations are the outgrowths of their first attempts at civilization.
The College, the Market, and the CourtCaroline H. Dall
One seems to detect several grades or qualities of friendship in these adages.
Proverb LoreF. Edward Hulme
adage
- a traditional saying that is accepted by many as true or partially true; proverb
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Word Origin
C16: via Old French from Latin adagium; related to āio I say
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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Word Origin and History for adages
adage
n.
1540s, Middle French adage, from Latin adagium "adage, proverb," apparently from adagio, from ad- "to" (see ad-) + *agi-, root of aio "I say," from PIE *ag- "to speak." But Tucker thinks the second element is rather ago "set in motion, drive, urge."
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Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper