Definition of Proverb

Prov´erb
n.1.An old and common saying; a phrase which is often repeated; especially, a sentence which briefly and forcibly expresses some practical truth, or the result of experience and observation; a maxim; a saw; an adage.
2.A striking or paradoxical assertion; an obscure saying; an enigma; a parable.
His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and speakest no proverb.
- John xvi. 29.
3.A familiar illustration; a subject of contemptuous reference.
Thou shalt become an astonishment, a proverb, and a by word, among all nations.
- Deut. xxviii. 37.
4.A drama exemplifying a proverb.
Book of Proverbs
a canonical book of the Old Testament, containing a great variety of wise maxims.
v. t.1.To name in, or as, a proverb.
Am I not sung and proverbed for a fool ?
- Milton.
2.To provide with a proverb.
I am proverbed with a grandsire phrase.
- Shak.
v. i.1.To write or utter proverbs.


Related Words

ana, analects, aphorism, apophthegm, apothegm, axiom, bromide, catchword, cliche, coin a phrase, collected sayings, commonplace, current saying, dictate, dictum, distich, epigram, expression, gnome, golden saying, homily, moral, mot, oracle, phrase, pithy saying, platitude, precept, prescript, proverbial saying, proverbs, sentence, sententious expression, sloka, stock saying, sutra, teaching, text, truism, verse, wisdom, wisdom literature, wise saying, witticism, word, words of wisdom

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