provenance

[ prov-uh-nuhns, -nahns ]

noun

1. place or source of origin:

   The provenance of the ancient manuscript has never been determined.

provenance

/ ˈprɒvɪnəns; prəʊˈviːnɪəns /

noun

1. a place of origin, esp that of a work of art or archaeological specimen

Word History and Origins

Origin of provenance¹

1860–65; < French, derivative of provenant, present participle of provenir < Latin prōvenīre to come forth; pro- ¹, convene, -ant

Word History and Origins

Origin of provenance¹

C19: from French, from provenir, from Latin prōvenīre to originate, from venīre to come

Example Sentences

"If people knew the provenance of this company and how it operates they might not be quite so ready to trust them with their DNA," he told the BBC.

From BBC

He has submitted documents proving its provenance to Nepali authorities, saying: "The day it is repatriated will be the most important day in my life."

From BBC

But although mainstream history books describe him as a native of Genoa, uncertainty has surrounded his provenance and many countries and regions have claimed him as their own.

From BBC

Dimon's denial, through reps, came after Trump shared a screenshot of unknown provenance on Truth Social with the claim that his campaign had the backing of the banking bigwig.

From Salon

While the term is most often used in the States when describing a wine’s provenance, it’s fitting for cheese, too.

From Salon

Related Words

• origin