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byword(noun) A condensed but memorable saying embodying some important fact of experience that is taken as true by many people. Synonyms: adage, proverb, sawUsage: I knew a wise man that had it for a byword, when he saw men hasten to a conclusion, "Stay a little, that we may make an end the sooner."
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Daemon wrote:byword(noun) A condensed but memorable saying embodying some important fact of experience that is taken as true by many people. I've only come across this word in a different signification: Quote:Know then that in the time of the Great Rebellion (the history of which by the learned Lord Clarendon I most earnestly commend to your attention) this Manor of Baskerville was held by Hugo of that name, nor can it be gainsaid that he was a most wild, profane, and godless man. This, in truth, his neighbours might have pardoned, seeing that saints have never flourished in those parts, but there was in him a certain wanton and cruel humour which made his name a by-word through the West.
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The Hound of the Baskervilles, by Arthur Conan Doyle
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Byword (n.)
also by-word, late Old English biword "proverb, word or phrase used proverbially;" by + word (n.). Formed on the model of Latin proverbium or Greek parabole. Meaning "something that has become proverbial" (usually in a satirical or bad sense) is from 1530s.
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A byword is an adage or a catchphrase — it's a motto that captures some important principle or meaningful idea. Your family's byword might be "Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible."
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Like a proverb or an aphorism, a byword condenses an idea that resonates with many people into a short, memorable phrase. If you grandmother is famous for saying, "You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar," you can describe the saying as her favorite byword. In Old English, the word was biword, "proverb," or "household word," a translation of the Latin proverbium.
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" But if ye shall at all turn from following me? Then will I cut off Israel out of the land which I have given them; and this house, which I have hallowed for my name, will I cast out of my sight; and Israel shall be a proverb and a byword among all people.
Bible (Old Testament)
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He will become a laughter and a byword, and all my days and nights will be filled with woe.
- Jack London, List of Short Stories, A Nose For the King.
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