Proverb

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈprÉ’vɜːb/
• US IPA: /ˈprɑːvɝːb/

Origin

From Latin proverbium.

Full definition of proverb

Noun

1. A phrase expressing a basic truth which may be applied to common situations.
2. A striking or paradoxical assertion; an obscure saying; an enigma; a parable.
• Bible, John xvi. 29His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and speakest no proverb.
3. A familiar illustration; a subject of contemptuous reference.
• Bible, Deuteronomy xxviii. 37Thou shalt become an astonishment, a proverb, and a by word, among all nations.
4. A drama exemplifying a proverb.

Synonyms

• (phrase expressing a basic truth) adage, apothegm, byword, maxim, paroemia, saw, byspel, saying, sententia

Derived terms

Verb

1. To write or utter proverbs.
2. To name in, or as, a proverb.
• 1671, John Milton, Samson Agonistes, lines 203-205:Am I not sung and proverbed for a fool
  In every street, do they not say, "How well
  Are come upon him his deserts?"
3. To provide with a proverb.
• ShakespeareI am proverbed with a grandsire phrase.