n.
1.a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct
2.a rule or standard especially of good behavior
3.a basic truth or law or assumption
4.a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system
5.rule of personal conduct
6.(law) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature)
Idiom of the Day
a hatchet man
a politician whose job it is to say negative things about the opposition, a person in a company who must fire extra workers or cut other expenses
The manager is acting as a hatchet man for the company president.