GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

Found one definition

1.       
   Aphorism , n. [F. aphorisme, fr. Gr.  definition, a short, pithy sentence, fr.  to mark off by boundaries, to define;  from +  to separate, part. See Horizon.] A comprehensive maxim or principle expressed in a few words; a sharply defined sentence relating to abstract truth rather than to practical matters.
   1913 Webster
   The first aphorism of Hippocrates is, “Life is short, and the art is long.”
   Fleming.
   
   1913 Webster
   Syn. -- Axiom; maxim; adage; proverb; apothegm; saying; saw; truism; dictum. See Axiom.
   1913 Webster