A formal pronouncement from an authoritative source. The judge's dictum was clear and left no room for interpretation.
A short statement that expresses a general truth or principle. The dictum 'actions speak louder than words' is often quoted in motivational speeches.
An incidental remark or opinion by a judge that is not essential to the decision and therefore not legally binding (often called an ‘obiter dictum’). The court’s ruling was narrow; the judge’s comments on free speech were merely a dictum.