proverbs
|prov-erbs|
🇺🇸
/ˈprɑvərbz/
🇬🇧
/ˈprɒvəbz/
(proverb)
wise saying
Etymology
'proverb' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'proverbium', where the prefix 'pro-' meant 'forth' and 'verbum' meant 'word'.
'proverb' changed from Latin 'proverbium' into Old French 'proverbe', then into Middle English 'proverbe' and eventually became the modern English word 'proverb'.
Initially, it meant 'a word or saying brought forth' (a spoken saying), but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a short common saying expressing a truth or advice'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
short, well-known sayings that express a general truth or piece of advice
Many proverbs teach moral lessons in a few words.
Synonyms
Noun 2
the biblical Book of Proverbs (a collection of wise sayings) — used here as a title
She often reads passages from proverbs for inspiration.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/12/17 13:46