Proverbs
[ prov-erbz ]
/ ˈprɒv ərbz /
noun
(used with a singular verb)
a book of the Bible, containing the sayings of sages. Abbreviation: Prov.
Definition for proverbs (2 of 3)
proverb
[ prov-erb ]
/ ˈprɒv ərb /
noun
a short popular saying, usually of unknown and ancient origin, that expresses effectively some commonplace truth or useful thought; adage; saw.
a wise saying or precept; a didactic sentence.
a person or thing that is commonly regarded as an embodiment or representation of some quality; byword.
Bible.
a profound saying, maxim, or oracular utterance requiring interpretation.
verb (used with object)
Origin of proverb
SYNONYMS FOR proverb
1
aphorism,
apothegm.
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.”
OTHER WORDS FROM proverb
prov·erb·like, adjectiveDefinition for proverbs (3 of 3)
pro-verb
[ proh-vurb ]
/ ˈproʊˌvɜrb /
noun Grammar.
a word that can substitute for a verb or verb phrase, as do in They never attend board meetings, but we do regularly.
Origin of pro-verb
First recorded in 1905–10; by analogy with
pronoun
Example sentences from the Web for proverbs
British Dictionary definitions for proverbs (1 of 2)
Proverbs
/ (ˈprɒvɜːbz) /
noun
(functioning as singular)
a book of the Old Testament consisting of the proverbs of various Israelite sages including Solomon
British Dictionary definitions for proverbs (2 of 2)
proverb
/ (ˈprɒvɜːb) /
noun
a short, memorable, and often highly condensed saying embodying, esp with bold imagery, some commonplace fact or experience
a person or thing exemplary in respect of a characteristic
Antarctica is a proverb for extreme cold
ecclesiast
a wise saying or admonition providing guidance
verb (tr)
to utter or describe (something) in the form of a proverb
to make (something) a proverb
Word Origin for proverb
C14: via Old French from Latin
prōverbium, from
verbum word
Cultural definitions for proverbs
proverb
A brief, memorable saying that expresses a truth or belief, such as “A friend in need is a friend indeed.” (See examples under “Proverbs.”)