PROVERBIALLY

proverbially

(adverb) in the manner of something that has become a byword; “this proverbially bitter plant, wormwood”

Source: WordNet® 3.1


Etymology

Adverb

proverbially (comparative more proverbially, superlative most proverbially)

In a manner that uses proverbs; in proverbs.

In a manner reminiscent of a proverb.

Source: Wiktionary


Pro*ver"bi*al*ly, adv.

Definition: In a proverbial manner; by way of proverb; hence, commonly; universally; as, it is proverbially said; the bee is proverbially busy.

PROVERBIAL

Pro*ver"bi*al, a. Etym: [L. proverbialis: cf. F. proverbial.]

1. Mentioned or comprised in a proverb; used as a proverb; hence, commonly known; as, a proverbial expression; his meanness was proverbial. In case of excesses, I take the German proverbial cure, by a hair of the same beast, to be the worst. Sir W. Temple.

2. Of or pertaining to proverbs; resembling a proverb. "A proverbial obscurity." Sir T. Browne.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition



RESET




Word of the Day

2 April 2025

COVERT

(adjective) secret or hidden; not openly practiced or engaged in or shown or avowed; “covert actions by the CIA”; “covert funding for the rebels”


coffee icon

Coffee Trivia

Decaffeinated coffee comes from a chemical process that takes out caffeine from the beans. Pharmaceutical and soda companies buy the extracted caffeine.

coffee icon