The difference between Apothegm and Gnome

Apothegm as a noun:

A short, witty, instructive saying; an aphorism or maxim.

Gnome as a noun:

A brief reflection or maxim; a pithy saying.

Gnome as a noun (magic, alchemy, Rosicrucianism):

An elemental (spirit or corporeal creature associated with a classical element) associated with earth.

Gnome as a noun (mythology, fantasy literature):

One of a legendary race of human-like beings, usually imagined as short and possibly bearded males, who inhabit the inner parts of the earth and act as guardians of mines, mineral treasure, etc.; in modern fantasy literature, when distinguished from dwarves, gnomes are usually even smaller than dwarves and more focussed on engineering than mining.

Gnome as a noun:

A dwarf; a goblin; a person of small stature or misshapen features, or of strange appearance.

Gnome as a noun:

The , , a small owl of the western United States.

Gnome as a noun:

A small statue of a dwarf-like character, often bearded, placed in a garden.

Gnome as a noun (astronomy, meteorology):

An upper atmospheric optical phenomenon associated with thunderstorms, a compact blue starter.

Gnome as a noun (often, derogatory):

A banker, especially a secretive international one.