prove

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   obtain probate of

   prove a will

2. 2
   verb

   be shown or be found to be

   They proved to be right.

3. 3
   verb

   To demonstrate that something is true or viable; to give proof for; to bear out; to testify.

   [VV]e are able with playne demonſtration to proue, and vvith reaſon to perſvvade that in tymes paſt our fayth vvas alike, that then vve preached thinges correſpondent vnto the forme of faith already published of vs, ſo that none in this behalfe can repyne or gaynesay vs.

4. 4
   verb

   To turn out; to manifest.

   It proved to be a cold day.

5. 5
   verb

   To turn out to be.

   Have an exit strategy should your calculations prove incorrect.

6. 6
   verb

   To put to the test, to make trial of.

   They took the experimental car to the proving-grounds.

7. 7
   verb

   To ascertain or establish the genuineness or validity of; to verify.

   to prove a will

8. 8
   verb

   To experience.

   Where she, captived long, great woes did prove.

Etymology

From Middle English proven, from Old English prōfian (“to esteem, regard as, evince, try, prove”) and Old French prover (“to prove”), both from Latin probō (“test, try, examine, approve, show to be good or fit, prove”, verb), from probus (“good, worthy, excellent”), from Proto-Indo-European *pro-bʰuH-s (“being in front, prominent”), from *pro-, *per- (“toward”) + *bʰuH- (“to be”). Displaced native Middle English sothen (“to prove”), from Old English sōþian (“to prove”). Doublet of probe. More at for, be, soothe.