APHORISM

APHORISM, a Maxim, general Rule, or Principle of a Science; or a brief Sentence, comprehending a great deal of Matter in a few Words. See MAXIM, etc. The Term is chiefly used in Medicine and Law. Thus we say the Aphorisms of Hippocrates, of Sanctorius, of Boerhaave, etc., Aphorisms of the Civil Law, etc. The Word comes from the Greek ἀφορισμός, of ἀφορίζω, separate, choose, i.e., choice, or select Sentences. See SENTENCE, AXIOM, etc.

APHORISM