Synonyms of parable

parable

noun

ˈper-ə-bəl 

as in allegory

a story intended to teach a basic truth or moral about life

the parable in which the repentant sinner is compared to the returning prodigal son who is welcomed home

Synonyms & Similar Words

• allegory
• fable
• tale
• apologue
• narrative
• mythology
• bestiary
• myth
• beast fable
• morality play
• legend

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of parable

The pair’s mysterious interactions in the early chapters give way to a series of parables of doubt and belief, in which a rational character is confronted by an irrational event—and immediately convinced of its absolute truth. — Robert Rubsam, The Atlantic, 20 July 2026

Shifting baseline syndrome was initially considered an evocative parable of humans’ estrangement from wild nature—a warning in the form of a hypothesis. — Literary Hub, 15 July 2026

Jesus taught his followers by his remarkable example, including innumerable healings, as well as through his sermons and parables. — Eric Bashor, Christian Science Monitor, 13 July 2026

Apparently all mothers, even surrogate mothers, were alike, but at least Adele no longer had to fear monitory parables from her real mother. — Jonathan Franzen, New Yorker, 1 June 2026

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