An Axiom

1. (philosophy) A seemingly self-evident or necessary truth which is based on assumption; a principle or proposition which cannot actually be proved or disproved.
2. (logic, mathematics, proof theory) A fundamental assumption that serves as a basis for deduction of theorems; a postulate (sometimes distinguished from postulates as being universally applicable, whereas postulates are particular to a certain science or context).
3. An established principle in some artistic practice or science that is universally received.

Synonyms

• (philosophy, mathematics): axioma (now rare)
• (logic, mathematics): postulate