1. (n.) An established principle or proposition; an axiom of practical wisdom; an adage; a proverb\; an aphorism.

2. (n.) The longest note formerly used, equal to two longs, or four breves; a large.

Procrustean law a belief adage aphorism apophthegm apothegm article of faith axiom brocard byword canon cliche code commandment commonplace convention criterion dictum doctrine dogma epigram form formality formula formulary general principle gnome golden rule guideline guiding principle imperative law law of nature mitzvah moral mot motto norm norma order of nature ordinance platitude precept prescribed form prescript prescription principium principle proverb regulation rubric rule rule of thumb saw saying set form settled principle slogan standard standing order teaching tenet theorem truism universal law witticism working principle working rule