To be able to wait for something without becoming frustrated is a valuable character trait.
The first known recording of this expression is in Piers Plowman, a narrative poem believed to have been written by William Langland between 1360 and 1387. It is similar to the Latin expression, maxima enim, patientia virtus (patience is the greatest virtue).
Around the same time or shortly after Piers Plowman, Chaucer wrote in The Canterbury Tales that "Patience is a high virtue... but virtue can hurt you." (The Franklin's Tale)
Alphabetical list of expressions
Challenge yourself with BookBrowse Wordplays
From a dazzling new literary voice, a debut novel about a Palestinian family caught between present and past.
About the book
A Place for Us
by Fatima Farheen Mirza
A deeply moving story of love, identity and belonging--the first novel from Sarah Jessica Parker's new imprint.
Reader Reviews
Win up to 12 copies for you & your book club!
The spellbinding prequel to Alice Hoffman's bestselling Practical Magic.
Visitors can view some of BookBrowse for free. Full access is for members only.
Your guide toexceptional books
BookBrowse seeks out and recommends books that we believe to be best in class. Books that will whisk you to faraway places and times, that will expand your mind and challenge you -- the kinds of books you just can't wait to tell your friends about.
Subscribe to receive some of our best reviews, "beyond the book" articles, book club info & giveaways by email.
