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axiom

noun

/ˈaksɪəm/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of axiom

A statement or proposition that is considered to be self-evident and universally accepted as true.
"The axiom "survival of the fittest" is central to the theory of evolution."

Detailed meaning of axiom

It is a fundamental principle or rule that is accepted without the need for proof or demonstration. Axioms are basic building blocks of knowledge and are used as a starting point for logical reasoning and argumentation. They are often used in mathematics, logic, and philosophy, and are considered to be the foundation of a particular field of study. An axiom can also be a statement which is accepted by convention or general agreement, even if it cannot be proven or disproved. In science, an axiom is a statement that is taken as true without the need for any further proof, it is considered to be a basic truth. In a more general sense, an axiom is a statement or principle that is widely accepted as true or self-evident.

Example sentences containing axiom

1. In mathematics, the Pythagorean theorem is considered an essential axiom.
2. "Actions speak louder than words" is a well-known social axiom.
3. As a fundamental axiom of geometry, parallel lines never meet.
4. The axiom "all men are created equal" is a cornerstone of democratic societies.
5. In philosophy, the axiom "I think, therefore I am" reflects existential certainty.
6. The axiom "you can't have your cake and eat it too" expresses a common dilemma.

History and etymology of axiom

The noun 'axiom' traces its roots to ancient Greece, particularly to the philosopher Euclid's work in geometry. The term has its origins in the Greek word 'axios,' meaning 'worthy' or 'deserving.' Etymologically, an 'axiom' is something that is deemed worthy or deserving of acceptance without further proof because it is self-evident or universally recognized as true. This notion of inherent worthiness and undeniable truth underlies the concept of axioms in mathematics and philosophy, where they serve as fundamental principles upon which logical reasoning and deduction are built. Thus, the etymology of 'axiom' illuminates its role as a foundational and self-evident statement or proposition.

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Further usage examples of axiom

1. The axiom "an eye for an eye" has influenced legal systems throughout history.
2. The axiom "love conquers all" celebrates the power of affection.
3. In science, the axiom of energy conservation is a fundamental principle.
4. The business axiom "the customer is always right" emphasizes customer satisfaction.
5. "To thine own self be true" is an axiom often cited in discussions of personal integrity.
6. The axiom "knowledge is power" underscores the value of education.
7. The axiom "what goes up must come down" describes the law of gravity.
8. "Necessity is the mother of invention" is a famous entrepreneurial axiom.
9. The political axiom "divide and conquer" has been employed in various strategies.
10. The moral axiom "do unto others as you would have them do unto you" promotes empathy.
11. The scientific axiom "correlation does not imply causation" reminds us of research pitfalls.
12. The economic axiom of supply and demand influences market dynamics.
13. The axiom "there's no place like home" celebrates the comfort of one's own space.
14. The axiom "time heals all wounds" suggests that with time, emotional pain fades.
15. In ethics, the axiom "the ends justify the means" is often debated.
16. The mathematical axiom of the transitive property is essential in algebra.
17. "To each his own" is an axiom that recognizes individual preferences.
18. The legal axiom "innocent until proven guilty" protects the rights of the accused.
19. The axiom that 'practice makes perfect' is a common adage.