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

It requires large online platforms, such as social media sites, to provide accessible provenance data on uploaded content starting in 2027.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

They may ask the seller questions about a gem’s provenance.

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There is a timeless draw to the private, one-on-one storytelling that has always been the provenance of books.

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Regardless of its exact provenance the owner now faces a fine for driving a vehicle on the motorway without headlights, indicators or number plates, and could have his driving licence suspended.

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"But the thing for Welsh vineyards is to focus on quality - the provenance and integrity of the vine - and not get sucked into the English juggernaut."

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Related Words

• origin