gnome vs proverb

gnome

noun
  • A brief reflection or maxim; a pithy saying. 

  • An upper atmospheric optical phenomenon associated with thunderstorms, a compact blue starter. 

  • An elemental (spirit or corporeal creature associated with a classical element) associated with earth. 

  • A small statue of a dwarf-like character, often bearded, placed in a garden. 

  • A banker, especially a secretive international one. 

  • One of a race of imaginary human-like beings, usually depicted as short and typically bearded males, who inhabit the inner parts of the earth and act as guardians of mines, mineral treasure, etc.; in modern fantasy literature and games, when distinguished from dwarves, gnomes are usually even smaller than dwarves and more focussed on engineering than mining. 

  • The northern pygmy owl, Glaucidium gnoma, a small owl of the western United States. 

  • A person of small stature or misshapen features, or of strange appearance. 

proverb

noun
  • 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. 

  • A familiar illustration; a subject of contemptuous reference. 

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

  • To write or utter proverbs. 

  • To provide with a proverb. 

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