axiom

ax·i·om

noun \ˈak-sē-əm\

Definition of AXIOM

1

: a maxim widely accepted on its intrinsic merit

2

: a statement accepted as true as the basis for argument or inference : postulate 1

3

: an established rule or principle or a self-evident truth

Examples of AXIOM

1. one of the key axioms of the theory of evolution

Origin of AXIOM

Latin axioma, from Greek axiōma, literally, something worthy, from axioun to think worthy, from axios worth, worthy; akin to Greek agein to weigh, drive — more at agent

First Known Use: 15th century

Other Logic Terms

a posteriori, connotation, corollary, inference, mutually exclusive, paradox, postulate, syllogism

axiom

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

In mathematics or logic, an unprovable rule or first principle accepted as true because it is self-evident or particularly useful (e.g., “Nothing can both be and not be at the same time and in the same respect”). The term is often used interchangeably with postulate, though the latter term is sometimes reserved for mathematical applications (such as the postulates of Euclidean geometry). It should be contrasted with a theorem, which requires a rigorous proof.