a maxim or principle of a science; or a sentence which comprehends a great deal in a few words. The word comes from ἀφορίζω, I separate; q.d. a choice or select sentence. The term is chiefly used in medicine and law. We say the aphorisms of Hippocrates, of Sanctarius, of Boerhaave, &c., aphorisms of the civil law, &c.

APRACTI, in the ancient military art, denotes open vessels, without decks or hatches, furnished only at head and stern with cross planks, whereon the men stood to fight.