01 n. A self-evident and necessary truth, or a proposition whose truth is so evident as first sight that no reasoning or demonstration can make i…
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1.
A self-evident and necessary truth, or a proposition whose truth is so evident as first sight that no reasoning or demonstration can make it plainer; a proposition which it is necessary to take for granted; as, “The whole is greater than a part;” “A thing can not, at the same time, be and not be.”(Logic & Math.)
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2.
An established principle in some art or science, which, though not a necessary truth, is universally received; as, the axioms of political economy.
Syn.
Axiom, Maxim, Aphorism, Adage.
An axiom is a self-evident truth which is taken for granted as the basis of reasoning. A maxim is a guiding principle sanctioned by experience, and relating especially to the practical concerns of life. An aphorism is a short sentence pithily expressing some valuable and general truth or sentiment. An adage is a saying of long-established authority and of universal application.