byword vs proverb

byword

noun
  • An object of notoriety or contempt, scorn or derision. 

  • A nickname or epithet. 

  • Someone or something that stands as an example (i.e. metonymically) for something else, by having some of that something's characteristic traits. 

  • A characteristic word or expression; a word or phrase associated with a person or group. 

  • A proverb or proverbial expression, common saying; a frequently used word or phrase. 

proverb

noun
  • A familiar illustration; a subject of contemptuous reference. 

  • A striking or paradoxical assertion; an obscure saying; an enigma; a parable. 

  • A drama exemplifying a proverb. 

  • A phrase expressing a basic truth which may be applied to common situations. 

verb
  • To name in, or as, a proverb. 

  • To write or utter proverbs. 

  • To provide with a proverb. 

How often have the words byword and proverb occurred in a corpus of books? (source: Google Ngram Viewer )