Proverbs

[ prov-erbz ]

noun

, (used with a singular verb)

1. a book of the Bible, containing the sayings of sages. : Prov.

Proverbs

/ ˈprɒvɜːbz /

noun

1. functioning as singular a book of the Old Testament consisting of the proverbs of various Israelite sages including Solomon

Word History and Origins

Origin of Proverbs¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Old French proverbes, from Late Latin Prōverbia (Salomōnis, Solomōnis), translation of Hebrew mishlē (Shĕlōmōh) “Proverbs (of Solomon)”

Example Sentences

He was big on ancient customs and beliefs and was known to quote Elders Proverbs.

From Literature

The King James Bible is loaded with memorable analogies, and one of the most vivid is from Proverbs: “As a dog returneth to its vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly.”

From New York Times

The Book of Proverbs tells believers to not mess with the poor, or “the Lord will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them.”

From Los Angeles Times

He said the title of the book comes from Proverbs 16:18, which says “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”

From Washington Times

The King will pray aloud using words inspired from the hymn I vow to thee my country and from the biblical books of Galatians and Proverbs.

From BBC