Proverbial
/prəˈvɜː(r)biəl/
Definitions
Relating to or characteristic of a proverb or proverb; well-known and often quoted.
/prəˈvɜː(r)biəl/
Widely known and spoken of, typically representing a well-known saying or idiom.
The company faced a proverbial uphill battle to gain market share.
💡 Simply: It's like when everyone knows a saying, like 'honesty is the best policy.' It's so common, it's proverbial. It's like the 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' rule!
👶 For kids: It means something everyone knows and says, like a special saying!
More Examples
Her kindness was proverbial, always helping those in need.
He was known for his proverbial patience, never losing his temper.
How It's Used
"The 'early bird catches the worm' is a proverbial saying."
"He had the proverbial luck of the Irish."
Idioms & expressions
proverbial wisdom
Commonly understood and accepted insights or truths.
"The story illustrates the proverbial wisdom of the ages."
proverbial needle in a haystack
Something that is extremely difficult to find or locate.
"Finding a trustworthy mechanic can be like searching for a proverbial needle in a haystack."
From Latin *proverbium* ('a proverb') + -ial. It emerged in the late 14th century, initially referring to a statement commonly cited or quoted.
Used since late 14th century, initially referencing a phrase or sentence that is well-known or often repeated. Evolved to encompass general characteristics or situations.
Memory tip
Think of a proverb you know, like 'look before you leap' to remember that proverbial means something well-known or often said.
Word Origin
"a proverb, a saying"