Proverbs

American  

[prov-erbz] / ˈprɒv ərbz /

noun

(used with a singular verb)

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

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Proverbs British  

/ ˈprɒvɜːbz /

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of Proverbs

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

The milkshake cup features Proverbs 3:5: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 23, 2025

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 • May 28, 2023

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 • Apr. 29, 2023

According to Proverbs 11:3, “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”

From Washington Post • Aug. 5, 2022

In addition to composing devotional songs, including a setting for the Psalms and Proverbs, he carried out an international music ministry.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom