proverb

[ prov-erb ]

noun

1. a short popular saying, usually of unknown and ancient origin, that expresses effectively some commonplace truth or useful thought; adage; saw.

   Synonyms: apothegm, aphorism

2. a wise saying or precept; a didactic sentence.
3. a person or thing that is commonly regarded as an embodiment or representation of some quality; byword.
4. Bible. a profound saying, maxim, or oracular utterance requiring interpretation.

verb (used with object)

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

proverb

/ ˈprɒvɜːb /

noun

1. a short, memorable, and often highly condensed saying embodying, esp with bold imagery, some commonplace fact or experience
2. a person or thing exemplary in respect of a characteristic

   Antarctica is a proverb for extreme cold

3. ecclesiast a wise saying or admonition providing guidance

verb

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

proverb

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

Other Words From

• proverb·like adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of proverb¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of proverb¹

C14: via Old French from Latin prōverbium, from verbum word

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.”

Example Sentences

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

From Los Angeles Times

But he’s usually able to turn it around by talking to his friends or elders, or by reciting his favorite proverb:

From Los Angeles Times

Maybe the three monkeys represented the "wise monkeys" in the Japanese proverb of the "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" fame?

From BBC

Three monkeys have been associated with the Japanese proverb "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil".

From BBC

A Thief Has Come is a Rajasthani proverb uttered when a girl is born.

From BBC

Related Words

• adage
• aphorism
• axiom
• dictum
• epigram
• maxim
• witticism