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

Scattered across Garcia storefronts in the Netherlands since the end of February, 800 pairs of jeans have a provenance worth pointing out. —Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 3 Mar. 2026

The bounty of the seas will be upon us, in good company, provenance ,and pleasure. —Cass Farrar, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Mar. 2026

Those talks ended amid pushback from the league’s central office about whether RHC and the provenance of its money would ultimately pass the NWSL’s approval process, according to multiple sources with knowledge of the matter. —Eben Novy-Williams, Sportico.com, 2 Mar. 2026

Adjusted for inflation, that number comes to roughly $12 million in today's dollars; the ring is arguably priceless, however, owing to its provenance. —Emma Banks, InStyle, 27 Feb. 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