Meaning & Definition of word "Proverb"

Proverb

/ˈprəʊvɜːb/

1. A short, pithy saying in general use, stating a general truth or piece of advice.
- Example: The proverb 'A stitch in time saves nine' emphasizes the importance of addressing problems early.
2. A traditional saying that expresses a common experience or observation.
- Example: The proverb 'Birds of a feather flock together' suggests that people with similar interests tend to associate with each other.
3. A statement or phrase that gives advice or reflects a moral lesson.
- Example: The proverb 'You can't have your cake and eat it too' highlights the idea that you cannot enjoy two mutually exclusive things.
4. An expression that has been passed down through generations, often reflecting cultural wisdom.
- Example: In many cultures, the proverb 'Actions speak louder than words' is used to stress the importance of what you do over what you say.
5. A concise and memorable expression of advice or truth.
- Example: The well-known proverb 'An apple a day keeps the doctor away' promotes the benefits of healthy eating.

Middle English: from Old French 'proverbe', from Latin 'proverbium', from pro- 'for' + verbum 'word'.

A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush:

It's better to have a sure thing than to risk it for more.

Don't count your chickens before they hatch:

Don't assume success until it happens.

When in Rome, do as the Romans do:

Adapt to the customs of the places you visit.

adage:

A traditional saying widely accepted as a truth.

axiom:

A statement or proposition that is regarded as being self-evidently true.

maxim:

A short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct.

Meaning: Word of wisdom

Example Sentence: He dropped a word of wisdom about relationships.

Meaning: Life lesson

Example Sentence: That's a life lesson that's really stuck with me.