provenance

noun

prov·​e·​nance ˈpräv-nən(t)s 

ˈprä-və-ˌnän(t)s

1

: origin, source

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

What further adds to the car’s provenance is its 28251 serial number. —Howard Walker, Robb Report, 23 Mar. 2026

The 900-year-old instrument had imperial provenance, and is believed to have been produced by Emperor Song Huizong’s imperial workshop. —Mike Hanlon march 22, New Atlas, 22 Mar. 2026

Forms of proof that used to anchor reality now circulate untethered from provenance. —Nick Dothée, The Atlantic, 22 Mar. 2026

The provenance of the puck is similar to that of a basketball or football used in a notable moment. —Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 18 Mar. 2026

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