maxim

noun

ˈmak-səm How to pronounce maxim (audio)
Definition of maximnext
as in proverb
an often stated observation regarding something from common experience it's a common maxim that "a watched pot never boils," but that's not literally true

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of maxim That line is more than a practical outdoor maxim. — Jeff Fromm, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026 But that’s the world’s most popular game in 2026, intent on testing the old coaching maxim that failing to prepare is preparing to fail. — Luke Cyphers, Sportico.com, 11 June 2026 But, in a democracy, deciding whether the creation of the fund violates the moral maxim that no one can be a judge in his or her own cause ultimately will be up to the people. — Austin Sarat, Fortune, 24 May 2026 But that maxim may not hold up this year. — Sarah Min, CNBC, 27 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for maxim
Recent Examples of Synonyms for maxim
  1. proverb
  2. saying
  3. word
  4. motto
  5. adage
Noun
  • There’s a football proverb so old that, well, good luck attempting to find its original source.
    — Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 24 July 2026
  • The reason can be explained by a Japanese proverb about the importance of leaving no mess.
    — Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 26 June 2026
Definition of proverb
Noun
  • Teachers of science, mathematics and English were expected to include Quranic verses, sayings and traditions attributed to the Prophet Muhammad or other religious messages in their lessons.
    — Fatima Faizi, NPR, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Personalize the labels with sweet sayings, their initials, or even anniversary dates to commemorate the occasion.
    — Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of saying
Noun
  • Kilolani is the Hawaiian word for the stargazers, those who were inspired by the heavens.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Generations of Atlantans filled the North Avenue Presbyterian Church today to say farewell to Celestine Sibley, a woman whose words had moved them for more than half a century.
    — AJ Willingham, AJC.com, 18 Aug. 2026
Definition of word
Noun
  • The company noted most flags were designed decades or centuries ago, back when a seal, a motto, and something that looked dignified on a courthouse lawn was plenty.
    — Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 2 Aug. 2026
  • The 28-year-old was dressed, much like his other group members in red, black and white, pairing a cool motto jacket with sunglasses.
    — Nicole Fell, HollywoodReporter, 19 July 2026
Definition of motto
Noun
  • That myth — the adage that tours and festivals featuring all, or even primarily women, aren’t good business — has been around long before the days of Lilith Fair.
    — Marissa R. Moss, Rolling Stone, 29 July 2026
  • After so many games this season, some version of that adage, a verbal shrug and a nod to how unpredictable the sport is, has been uttered in the Padres clubhouse.
    — Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 July 2026
Definition of adage

Browse Nearby Words

maxillae
maxim
maxima
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Maxim.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/maxim. Accessed 19 Aug. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of maxim for Spanish Speakers

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