Fable

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Fable

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun and verb

Pronunciation

FAY-bul  /ˈfeɪb(ə)l/

Definition

As a noun: a short story, typically with animals as characters, conveying a moral. More broadly, a fictional or mythological story; a falsehood or legend. As a verb: to tell fictitious tales.

Plain meaning

A short moral story — usually with talking animals — that teaches a lesson. Also used for any legendary or made-up tale.

Register

Neutral to slightly literary. The literary sense is formal; the 'falsehood' sense is informal and slightly archaic.