Proverb (noun)

1. A short, well-known statement that expresses a truth or piece of advice.
2. A traditional saying that expresses a common experience or observation.

Origin:

From old french proverbe, from latin proverbium, from pro- "for" + verbum "word".

Examples:

1. A stitch in time saves nine.
2. Actions speak louder than words.
3. Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.
4. Honesty is the best policy.
5. Every cloud has a silver lining.