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

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

“Proverbs 3:5-6 ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.’”

From Los Angeles Times

She promises "increase" for those who sow a "seed," citing Proverbs 1:33, which promises "safety" and "ease" to believers.

From Salon

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