golden mean

noun

1. the perfect moderate course or position that avoids extremes; the happy medium.
2. golden section.

golden mean

noun

1. the middle course between extremes
2. See golden section
   another term for golden section

golden mean

1. The desirable middle ground between any two extremes, according to the philosophy of Aristotle .

Word History and Origins

Origin of golden mean¹

First recorded in 1580–90

Example Sentences

As long as we realize that, we may not get to the golden mean when we would like, but perhaps others will.

From The Daily Beast

I'm not for the golden mean in every instance; it's a way of exhorting to brutal selfishness.

From Project Gutenberg

Priscilla, not knowing what to reply to Martine's fun, wisely chose the golden mean of silence.

From Project Gutenberg

And vices are easier than virtue, extremes easier than the golden mean.

From Project Gutenberg

It seems to us a sort of golden mean between the two extremes.

From Project Gutenberg

This extreme also is avoided in man; in this, as in many other particulars, he holds the golden mean.

From Project Gutenberg