An old wives' tale is a type of urban legend, similar to a proverb, which is generally passed down by old wives to a younger generation. Such "tales" usually consist of superstition, folklore or unverified claims with exaggerated and/or untrue details. Today old wives' tales are still common among children in school playgrounds. Old wives' tales often concern pregnancy, puberty and nutrition.
Famous quotes containing the word tale:
“Never trust the artist. Trust the tale. The proper function of the critic is to save the tale from the artist who created it.”
—D.H. (David Herbert)
Related Subjects
Related Phrases
Related Words