provenance

noun

prov·​e·​nance ˈpräv-nən(t)s 

ˈprä-və-ˌnän(t)s

1

: origin, source

2

: the history of ownership of a valued object or work of art or literature

Examples of provenance in a Sentence

Has anyone traced the provenances of these paintings?

The artifact is of unknown provenance.

Recent Examples on the Web

Another highlight of the auction was the sale of several Rolex watches of important provenance, led by a 1963 Rolex reference 1803 day-date once belonging to the second president of Egypt, Gamal Abdel Nasser. —Anthony Demarco, Forbes, 7 Dec. 2024

The size, scale, provenance, historicity, and repair status are just a few examples of things to consider prior to purchasing. —Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 22 Nov. 2024

What are your thoughts on Jack’s unholy provenance? —Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 12 Nov. 2024

But the deep plunge of her gown’s neckline and the provenance of the Renaissance-style cross has divided opinion online, with some arguing the risqué cut feels incongruous with the religious symbol. —Leah Dolan, CNN, 4 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French, from provenir to come forth, originate, from Latin provenire, from pro- forth + venire to come — more at pro-, come

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined at sense 1