adage, adagy

[In Fr. adage; from Lat. adagium = a proverb, an adage.] A proverb or short sentence, embodying a wise saying, generally discovered by popular observation or experience; a pithy saying, hoary with antiquity, but whose easily-apprehended truth keeps it in popular currency still. "That is because I have done it myself, and not left it to others. Serve yourself, would you be well served, is an excel- lent adage ." Long fellow: The Courtship of Miles Standish , 1.37.