C2adjectivelanguage
US/prəˈvɜːr.bi.əl/
UK/prəˈvɜː.bi.əl/
used to show you are using a well-known saying or idiom; also, very well known
In context
Finding a cheap flat in this area is like looking for the proverbial needle in a haystack.
The new manager was the proverbial breath of fresh air.
The old teacher's patience is proverbial among his students.
Words that go with proverbial
adjective + noun
- the proverbial needle in a haystackFinding the file was like the proverbial needle in a haystack.
- proverbial elephant in the roomThe budget cut was the proverbial elephant in the room.
- proverbial last strawThe late payment was the proverbial last straw.
- proverbial wisdomProverbial wisdom says early birds catch the worm.
adjective + preposition
- proverbial amongHer kindness is proverbial among the villagers.