English Reference
Noun

proverb

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈpɹɑvɝb/ UK /pɹˈɒvɜːb/ proverb UK spelling proverb's, proverb's, proverbed, proverbing

n.a short, well-known saying that gives advice or tells you something about life. These sentences are usually passed down through history because they are easy to remember.

n.a short, pithy saying in general use, stating a general truth or piece of advice. Often metaphorical in nature and rooted in folk wisdom.


SIMPLE

My grandmother always used a proverb to teach me a lesson.

CONTEXTUAL

The teacher explained the proverb 'actions speak louder than words' to help the students understand the importance of doing rather than just talking.

COMPLEX

While many cultures share the same underlying moral values, each expresses them through a unique proverb that reflects its specific historical and agricultural heritage.


From Old French proverbe, from Latin proverbium.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated