First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1proverb
noun prov·erb \ˈprä-ˌvərb\
: a brief popular saying (such as “Too many cooks spoil the broth”) that gives advice about how people should live or that expresses a belief that is generally thought to be true
Full Definition of PROVERB
1
: a brief popular epigram or maxim : adage
2
: byword 4
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Origin of PROVERB
Middle English proverbe, from Anglo-French, from Latin proverbium, from pro- + verbum word — more at word
Related to PROVERB
2proverb
verb
Definition of PROVERB
transitive verb
1
: to speak of proverbially
2
obsolete : to provide with a proverb
First Known Use of PROVERB
14th century
PROVERB Defined for Kids
proverb
noun prov·erb \ˈprä-ˌvərb\
Definition of PROVERB for Kids
Word Root of PROVERB
The Latin word verbum, meaning “word,” gives us the root verb. Words from the Latin verbum have something to do with words. A verb is a word that shows action. An adverb is a word that modifies a verb, adjective, or other adverb. A proverb, or short saying containing a wise thought, is made up of a few well-chosen words. Anything verbal is made up of spoken words.
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