Apothegm
/ˈæp.ə.θɛm/noun
A concise, pointed statement; a terse saying or maxim.
Did you know?The word ultimately comes from Greek *apophthégma*, a “brief saying,” and its root *phtheng-* is tied to voice and utterance — proof that in ancient language, saying something was a kind of power.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἀπόφθεγμα (apóphthēgma)
“A terse saying; a pointed utterance”
Late Latin
Latin
apophthegma
“A memorable saying or concise remark”
Old French
Old French
apothegme
“A short, pithy saying”
16th Century
English
apothegm
“A concise, sententious saying or maxim”
Modern English
English
apothegm
“A concise, pointed statement or maxim”
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