English Explanatory Dictionary

proverb

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A commonly used sentence expressing popular wisdom.
  2. Any commonly used turn of phrase expressing a metaphor, simile, or descriptive epithet.
  3. A striking or paradoxical assertion; an obscure saying; an enigma; a parable.
  4. A familiar illustration; a subject of contemptuous reference.
  5. A drama exemplifying a proverb.
verb
  1. To write or utter proverbs.
  2. To name in, or as, a proverb.
  3. To provide with a proverb.

Pronunciation

/ˈpɹɒvɜːb/ /ˈpɹɑˌvɝb/ en-us-proverb.ogg

Word forms

proverb proverbs proverbing proverbed

Etymology

From Old French proverbe, from Latin proverbium.

Synonyms

aphorism maxim adage saw saying apothegm byword paroemia la:sententia

Derived words

antiproverb apologetic proverb perverb proverbial proverbiology proverbize proverblike Proverbs proverbs hunt in pairs
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