Măx'im, n.
n. [Fr. maxime, Sp. maxima, It. massima from Lat. maxima (sc. sententia), the greatest sentiment, sentence, proposition, or axiom, i. e., of the greatest weight or authority. See infra.]
Sense 1. An established principle or proposition; a condensed proposition of important practical truth; an axiom of practical wisdom; an adage; a proverb; an aphorism.
It is a maxim of state, that countries newly acquired, and not settled, are matters of burden rather than of strength. Bacon.
It is their maxim, Love is love's reward. Dryden.
A maxim is a conclusion upon observation of matters of fact, and is merely speculative; a “principle” carries knowledge within itself, and is prospective. Coleridge.
Sense 2. (Mus.) The longest note formerly used, equal to two longs, or four breves; a large.
Synonyms— Axiom; aphorism; apothegm; adage; proverb; saying. See Axiom.