| n. | 1. | |
| 1. | An established principle or proposition; a condensed proposition of important practical truth; an axiom of practical wisdom; an adage; a proverb; an aphorism. | |
| 2. | (Mus.) The longest note formerly used, equal to two longs, or four breves; a large. |
| Noun | 1. | maxim - a saying that widely accepted on its own merits Synonyms: axiom |
| 2. | Maxim - English inventor (born in the United States) who invented the Maxim gun that was used in World War I (1840-1916) Synonyms: Sir Hiram Stevens Maxim |
MAXIM. An established principle or proposition. A principle of law
universally admitted, as being just and consonant With reason.
2. Maxims in law are somewhat like axioms in geometry. 1 Bl. Com. 68.
They are principles and authorities, and part of the general customs or
common law of the land; and are of the same strength as acts of parliament,
when the judges have determined what is a maxim; which belongs to the judges
and not the jury. Terms do Ley; Doct. & Stud. Dial. 1, c. 8. Maxims of the
law are holden for law, and all other cases that may be applied to them
shall be taken for granted. 1 Inst. 11. 67; 4 Rep. See 1 Com. c. 68; Plowd.
27, b.
3. The application of the maxim to the case before the court, is
generally the only difficulty. The true method of making the application is
to ascertain bow the maxim arose, and to consider whether the case to which
it is applied is of the same character, or whether it is an exception to an
apparently general rule.
4. The alterations of any of the maxims of the common law are
dangerous. 2 Inst. 210.