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Fable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fable

[ˈfeɪbəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

literature

A fable is a short story that typically features animals as characters and conveys a moral lesson.

Synonyms

allegory, parable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fable

A fable is typically a short story that features animals as characters and is used to teach a moral or lesson. It is often simple and aimed at children.

  • The tortoise and the hare is a well-known fable that teaches the value of persistence.
  • In the fable, the fox tricks the crow to get the cheese.
parable

A parable is a simple, succinct story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson. It is often found in religious texts and teachings.

  • Jesus often used parables to teach spiritual lessons, such as the Parable of the Good Samaritan.
  • The parable of the prodigal son is about forgiveness and reconciliation.
allegory

An allegory is a narrative in which characters and events symbolize deeper truths and abstract ideas, often to convey moral, political, or spiritual messages. It can be more complex and is not necessarily for children.

  • George Orwell's 'Animal Farm' is an allegory about the corrupting nature of power.
  • In medieval literature, 'Everyman' is an allegory about the journey of life and death.

Examples of usage

  • The Tortoise and the Hare is a well-known fable about perseverance.
  • The fable of the Ant and the Grasshopper teaches the importance of hard work.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A widely believed but false story or idea.

Synonyms

legend, myth.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fable

A short story that typically uses animals and contains a moral lesson.

  • The fable of the tortoise and the hare teaches the value of perseverance
  • In many fables, animals speak and act like humans
myth

A traditional story that explains natural phenomena, cultural practices, or the origins of the world, often involving gods and supernatural beings.

  • Greek myths often explain natural events like thunderstorms and earthquakes
  • The myth of creation in many cultures tells how the world began
legend

A traditional story or narrative about historical figures or events, often with exaggerated or fictional elements.

  • The legend of King Arthur includes knights and magical elements
  • Robin Hood is a legendary figure known for his acts of bravery

Examples of usage

  • The fable that carrots improve your eyesight is actually a myth.
  • Don't fall for the fable that money buys happiness.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'fable'

The word 'fable' originated from the Latin word 'fabula', meaning 'a story'. Fables have been used throughout history to teach moral lessons in an entertaining way. Aesop's Fables, dating back to ancient Greece, are some of the most famous fables known worldwide. These short stories featuring animals and other characters have stood the test of time and continue to be popular in literature and culture.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,290, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.