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 Word Forms

• proverblike 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

"There's a Korean proverb that says, 'after the rain, the ground hardens'."

Read more on BBC

Prof Dutt sums up what is happening in the words of an old proverb: "Bow to the ruler, and then go your own way."

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He cites a South African proverb: “If the good doctor can’t cure you, find the less good doctor.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

You may be familiar with the weather proverb that March "comes in like a lion, out like a lamb".

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On a lace vintage doily, Simpson embroidered the Japanese proverb “Fall seven times, stand up eight,” a fitting metaphor for her metamorphosis as an artist.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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