adjective
-
of, relating to, or resembling an aphorism
-
tending to write or speak in aphorisms
Other Word Forms
- aphoristically adverb
- nonaphoristic adjective
- nonaphoristically adverb
Etymology
Origin of aphoristic
From the Greek word aphoristikós, dating back to 1745–55. See aphorist, -ic
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But when he got it right, his lyrics had an aphoristic directness that made them seem more hewn than written.
From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 9, 2025
That’s nothing new: For decades, Davis has specialized in aphoristic stories that thrive on wordplay, rhythm and irony while avoiding easy sarcasm or dad jokes.
From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 4, 2023
His fans can exit the theater after one of his plays with a heady feeling of freedom, stoic and ready for life, ignited by his aphoristic wit and two hours’ traffic with the Big Questions.
From New York Times • Feb. 24, 2021
The writers of aphoristic treacle are no more innocent than the purveyors of sugary drinks.
From Washington Post • Nov. 11, 2020
But in addition there is much wisdom and a remarkable power of casting his observations into a compact, aphoristic form.
From A Short Biographical Dictionary of English Literature by Cousin, John W. (John William)
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
