Proverb \Prov"erb\, n. [OE. proverbe, F. proverbe, from L.
   proverbium; pro before, for + verbum a word. See Verb.]
   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.
      --Chaucer. Bacon.
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   2. A striking or paradoxical assertion; an obscure saying; an
      enigma; a parable.
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            His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou
            plainly, and speakest no proverb.     --John xvi.
                                                  29.
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   3. A familiar illustration; a subject of contemptuous
      reference.
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            Thou shalt become an astonishment, a proverb, and a
            by word, among all nations.           --Deut.
                                                  xxviii. 37.
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   4. A drama exemplifying a proverb.
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   Book of Proverbs, a canonical book of the Old Testament,
      containing a great variety of wise maxims.
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   Syn: Maxim; aphorism; apothegm; adage; saw.
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	Book of Proverbs
    n 1: an Old Testament book consisting of proverbs from various
         Israeli sages (including Solomon) [syn: Proverbs, Book
         of Proverbs]