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

And in a market where scarcity drives desire, architectural provenance is becoming just as valuable as ocean views or square footage. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 3 July 2025

Gracious and inviting, a traditional bedroom design uses crisp linens and pieces with provenance to create a timeless look. —Elizabeth Stamp, Architectural Digest, 2 July 2025

Indeed, several opponents were concerned with the bills’ provenance. —Hayley Smith, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2025

Questions about the provenance of paintings and sculptures of the 19th century—my area of focus—tended to list both monarchies and families of great wealth, while speculations about meaning often implicated entire cultural and social systems. —Libby Buck july 1, Literary Hub, 1 July 2025

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