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Definition of adage

adage

/ˈæd.ɪdʒ/
ad · age
Plural:adages
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adage Lexical Profile

adage Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A short, traditional, and memorable saying that expresses a general truth or piece of practical wisdom.

Example

"She reminded her team of the classic adage that actions speak louder than words."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for adage

Word Nuance & Usage

Because the definition of an adage inherently includes the idea of age and tradition, the common phrase 'old adage' is technically redundant, though widely accepted in everyday usage.

• Nearby Words

acuteness
ad
ad rate
adage
adamance
adamant
adamantly

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 16th century via Middle French from the Latin 'adagium' ('proverb'), which combines 'ad-' ('to') with an archaic root related to 'aio' ('I say'). Its popularity in English was boosted by Erasmus's famous Renaissance collection of classical proverbs, 'Adagia'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Adage. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/adage
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