axiom vs proverb

axiom

noun
  • A seemingly self-evident or necessary truth which is based on assumption; a principle or proposition which cannot actually be proved or disproved. 

  • 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). 

  • An established principle in some artistic practice or science that is universally received. 

proverb

noun
  • A phrase expressing a basic truth which may be applied to common situations. 

  • A striking or paradoxical assertion; an obscure saying; an enigma; a parable. 

  • A drama exemplifying a proverb. 

  • A familiar illustration; a subject of contemptuous reference. 

verb
  • To name in, or as, a proverb. 

  • To write or utter proverbs. 

  • To provide with a proverb. 

How often have the words axiom and proverb occurred in a corpus of books? (source: Google Ngram Viewer )