PROVERB Definition & Meaning

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proverb

[ prov-erb ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a short popular saying, usually of unknown and ancient origin, that expresses effectively some commonplace truth or useful thought; adage; saw.
Synonyms: ,
a wise saying or precept; a didactic sentence.
a person or thing that is commonly regarded as an embodiment or representation of some quality; byword.
Bible. a profound saying, maxim, or oracular utterance requiring interpretation.

verb (used with object)

to utter in the form of a proverb.
to make (something) the subject of a proverb.
to make a byword of.

proverb

/ ˈ��ɒ��ɜː�� /

noun

a short, memorable, and often highly condensed saying embodying, esp with bold imagery, some commonplace fact or experience
a person or thing exemplary in respect of a characteristic
Antarctica is a proverb for extreme cold
ecclesiast a wise saying or admonition providing guidance

verb

to utter or describe (something) in the form of a proverb
to make (something) a proverb

proverb

A brief, memorable saying that expresses a truth or belief, such as “ A friend in need is a friend indeed .” ( See examples under “Proverbs.” )

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Other �y��vlog Forms

��Ǳ�İ��·�� adjective

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�y��vlog History and Origins

Origin of proverb¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English proverbe, from Middle French, from Latin ��ō��ܳ� “adage,” equivalent to ��ō- pro- ¹ + verb(um) word + -ium -ium

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�y��vlog History and Origins

Origin of proverb¹

C14: via Old French from Latin ��ō��ܳ�, from verbum word

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Synonym Study

Proverb, maxim are terms for short, pithy sayings. A proverb is such a saying popularly known and repeated, usually expressing simply and concretely, though often metaphorically, a truth based on common sense or the practical experience of humankind: “A stitch in time saves nine.” A maxim is a brief statement of a general and practical truth, especially one that serves as a rule of conduct or a precept: “It is wise to risk no more than one can afford to lose.”

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

He cites a South African proverb: “If the good doctor can’t cure you, find the less good doctor.”

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You may be familiar with the weather proverb that March "comes in like a lion, out like a lamb".

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On a lace vintage doily, Simpson embroidered the Japanese proverb “Fall seven times, stand up eight,” a fitting metaphor for her metamorphosis as an artist.

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This is not uncommon in fundamentalist Christian households, where the biblical proverb about "sparing the rod" is regularly wielded to justify corporal punishment.

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Yet recall the ancient proverb: The enemy of my enemy is my friend.

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