Max"im (?), n. [F. maxime, L. maxima (sc.
sententia), the greatest sentence, proposition,
or axiom, i.
e., of the
greatest weight or authority, fem. fr. maximus greatest,
superl. of magnus great.
See Magnitude, and cf. Maximum.]
1. An established principle or proposition; a condensed proposition of important practical truth; an axiom of practical wisdom; an adage; a proverb; an aphorism.
'T is their maxim, Love is love's reward.
Dryden.
2. (Mus.) The longest note formerly used, equal to two longs, or
four breves; a large.
Syn. --
Axiom; aphorism; apothegm; adage; proverb; saying. See Axiom.
Hear it pronounced