Adage

n. proverb, maxim, traditional saying

An adage (IPA ), or adagium (Latin), is a short but memorable saying that holds some important fact of experience that is considered true by many people, or it has gained some credibility through its long use. Adages may be interesting observations, practical or ethical guidelines, or pessimistic comments on life. Some adages are products of folk wisdom which attempt to summarize some basic truth; these are generally known as proverbs. An adage which describes a general rule of conduct may be known as a "maxim". A pithy expression which has not necessarily gained credit through long use but which is distinguished by particular depth or good style is known as an aphorism, while one distinguished by wit or irony is known as an epigram. Through overuse, an adage may become a cliché or truism.
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Noun
1. a condensed but memorable saying embodying some important fact of experience that is taken as true by many people
(synonym) proverb, saw, byword
(hypernym) saying, expression, locution

n. adage, say, saying

(n.)
An old saying, which has obtained credit by long use; a proverb.