dictum

[dik-tuhm]

noun

plural

dicta, dictums 

1. an authoritative pronouncement; judicial assertion.

   Synonyms: declaration, order, fiat, decree, edict

2. a saying; maxim.

   Synonyms: saw, truism, proverb, adage

3. obiter dictum.

dictum

/ ˈdɪktəm /

noun

1. a formal or authoritative statement or assertion; pronouncement

2. a popular saying or maxim

3. law See obiter dictum

Word History and Origins

Origin of dictum¹

1660–70; < Latin: something said, a saying, command, word, noun use of neuter past participle of dīcere to say, speak; index

Word History and Origins

Origin of dictum¹

C16: from Latin, from dīcere to say

Example Sentences

This basic dictum also aligns with the post-World War II American story.

From Salon

Aeschylus’ dictum from “Agamemnon” that “through suffering comes learning” captured a key lesson in cultivating empathy and communal judgment.

From Salon

They are the ones who hold official secrets or, as one explains, uphold the ancient dictum, “the servants have no ears,” and resolve not to hear them.

From Salon

Watson pronounces Holmes’ famous dictum that once you eliminate the impossible, what remains, however improbable, is the truth; he must say it a lot, given the kids’ reaction.

From Los Angeles Times

This will be a willful surrender to the age-old, patently illogical dictum that preparing for war is the necessary precondition for peace.

From Salon

Related Words

• adage 
• aphorism 
• axiom 
• maxim 
• precept