Meaning & Definition of word "Fable"

Fable

/ˈfeɪ.bəl/

noun:

  • 1. A short story, typically with a moral, that often features animals as characters.
    • Example: The fable of the tortoise and the hare teaches that slow and steady wins the race.
  • 2. A story with no basis in fact, often told as if it were true.
    • Example: Some people believe in the fable of the Loch Ness Monster.
  • 3. A narrative that conveys a moral lesson, often passed down through generations.
    • Example: The children's book was filled with fables that highlighted the importance of honesty.

Etymology

From Middle English 'fablle', from Old French 'fable', from Latin 'fabulam', meaning 'story' or 'tale'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

fable of the hare and tortoise:

A story illustrating that slow and steady wins the race.

fabled riches:

Wealth or resources that are often more legend than reality.

Related Words

moral:

A lesson derived from a story or experience.

parable:

A simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson.

allegory:

A story or image that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning.

Slang Meanings of fable

Meaning: A tall tale or exaggerated story.

Example Sentence: He spun a fable about how he won the lottery but lost the ticket.

Meaning: An untrue but amusing story.

Example Sentence: That's just a fable; there's no way that happened.