proverb

Etymology

Definitions

1. 1

   A commonly used sentence expressing popular wisdom.

   • Near-synonyms: aphorism, maxim, adage, saw, saying, apothegm, byword, paroemia, sententia (Latin)
   • As a Yiddish proverb has it: Badarf men hunik ven tsuker iz zis? Who needs honey when sugar is sweet?
2. 2

   Any commonly used turn of phrase expressing a metaphor, simile, or descriptive epithet.

3. 3

   A striking or paradoxical assertion

   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.
4. ›+ 5 more definitionsshow fewer

   1. 4

      A familiar illustration

      A familiar illustration; a subject of contemptuous reference.

      • Thou shalt become an astonishment, a proverb, and a by word, among all nations.
   2. 5

      A drama exemplifying a proverb.

   3. 6

      To write or utter proverbs.

   4. 7

      To name in, or as, a proverb.

      • Am I not sung and proverbed for a fool / In every street, do they not say, "How well / Are come upon him his deserts?"
   5. 8

      To provide with a proverb.

      • I am proverbed with a grandsire phrase.

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