1. Abounding in or characterized by pithy aphorisms or maxims. This means using short, memorable, and often wise statements. It often has a slightly negative connotation, implying that the writing or speech is too full of these sayings and can come across as preachy or oversimplified.
Example: "The book was sententious, filled with proverbs and moralizing pronouncements."
2. Expressing much in few words; terse; concise. This meaning is more neutral, simply implying that the writing or speech is brief and to the point.
Example: "The lawyer's argument was sententious and persuasive."
It's important to consider the context when interpreting "sententious" to determine which meaning is intended.