provenance

noun

prov·​e·​nance ˈpräv-nən(t)s How to pronounce provenance (audio)
ˈprä-və-ˌnän(t)s
1
2
: the history of ownership of a valued object or work of art or literature

Examples of provenance in a Sentence

Has anyone traced the provenances of these paintings? The artifact is of unknown provenance.
Recent Examples on the Web The name and provenance of Tyrian purple were inventions of the Romans. Franz Lidz, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2024 Each watch was developed at least 30 years ago and exemplifies technical innovation, exceptional design, rare materials, historical significance, notable ownership or provenance, exquisite craftsmanship, and rarity. Cait Bazemore, Robb Report, 4 Mar. 2024 Read More: How Data Literacy Can Keep America Safe There will always be secrets of such great value or delicate provenance that they must be protected. TIME, 29 Feb. 2024 The shift towards direct-to-consumer models, coupled with a focus on quality, provenance, and storytelling, highlights the importance of adaptability and innovation in meeting the changing needs and preferences of consumers. Kaleigh Moore, Forbes, 29 Feb. 2024 Its appearance inspired investigation and speculation about its identity and provenance. Laris Karklis, Washington Post, 14 Feb. 2024 People can check the provenance — which AI tool was used to make the content — of any image generated by OpenAI’s platforms through websites like Content Credentials Verify. Emilia David, The Verge, 6 Feb. 2024 But would anyone actually wear sneakers with such a rare provenance and hefty price? The New York Times, New York Times, 9 Mar. 2024 Neither Adobe nor any regulatory body are forcing tech companies or their users to dutifully add provenance credentials to their content. Popular Science, 8 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'provenance.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

French, from provenir to come forth, originate, from Latin provenire, from pro- forth + venire to come — more at pro-, come

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of provenance was in 1785

Dictionary Entries Near provenance

Cite this Entry

“Provenance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/provenance. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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