Word of the day: Dictum

Dictum

[DIK-təm]

Part of speech: noun

Origin: Latin, late 16th century

1.A short statement that expresses a general truth or principle.

2.A formal pronouncement from an authoritative source.

Examples of dictum in a sentence

"The famous medical dictum says, 'First, do no harm.'"

"Stanley wanted to include a popular spiritual dictum in the introduction to his novel."

About Dictum

This is borrowed from the Latin “dictum,” literally meaning “something said.”

Did you Know?

Not all dictums are necessarily rooted in truth; sometimes they’re just catchphrases that have been said with enough authority over time to gain popularity. For instance, “you are what you eat” is not a literal truth.