Proverb: meaning, definitions and examples

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proverb

 

[ ˈprɒvɜːb ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

everyday life

A short well-known pithy saying, stating a general truth or piece of advice.

Synonyms

adage, maxim, saying

Examples of usage

  • It's not over till it's over.
  • Actions speak louder than words.
  • Don't count your chickens before they hatch.

Translations

Translations of the word "proverb" in other languages:

🇵🇹 provérbio

🇮🇳 कहावत

🇩🇪 Sprichwort

🇮🇩 peribahasa

🇺🇦 прислів'я

🇵🇱 przysłowie

🇯🇵 ことわざ (kotowaza)

🇫🇷 proverbe

🇪🇸 proverbio

🇹🇷 atasözü

🇰🇷 속담 (sokdam)

🇸🇦 مثل (mathal)

🇨🇿 přísloví

🇸🇰 príslovie

🇨🇳 谚语 (yànyǔ)

🇸🇮 pregovor

🇮🇸 málsháttur

🇰🇿 мақал

🇬🇪 განცდა (gant͡sda)

🇦🇿 atalar sözü

🇲🇽 proverbio

Etymology

The word 'proverb' originated from the Old French word 'proverbe', which came from the Latin word 'proverbium', meaning 'a common saying'. Proverbs have been an integral part of many cultures and languages, often passed down through generations to impart wisdom and guidance. They serve as concise and memorable expressions of universal truths and experiences.

See also: adverb, verb, verbal, verbalize, verbiage, verbing, verbose, verbosity.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,779, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.