Definition

Proper noun: * François de La Rochefoucauld: A French writer, moralist, and nobleman of the 17th century, famous for his collection of concise, often cynical, observations on human nature and society, published as Réflexions ou sentences et maximes morales (commonly known as Maxims).

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The aphorisms of La Rochefoucauld frequently explore themes of self-love and vanity.
  • Many consider La Rochefoucauld a master of the French maxim.
  • The psychologist quoted La Rochefoucauld on the hidden motives behind virtue.

Advanced Usage

• "à la La Rochefoucauld": In the style of La Rochefoucauld; characterized by psychological insight and a skeptical, epigrammatic tone.
  • Her analysis of the political situation was delivered à la La Rochefoucauld, sharp and unforgiving.

Variants and Related Words

• Rochefoucauldian (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of La Rochefoucauld or his ideas, especially a penetrating and pessimistic view of human psychology.
  • The novel offers a Rochefoucauldian critique of social ambition.

Synonyms

• Moralist: A writer or philosopher concerned with moral principles and behavior.
• Aphorist: A writer who composes concise, memorable statements of truth or opinion.

Related Phrases

• La Rochefoucauld's Maxims: The specific collection of his published reflections.
  • The truth of La Rochefoucauld's Maxims continues to resonate with modern readers.

Noun

1. French writer of moralistic maxims (1613-1680)