Pronunciation: [fˈe͡ɪbə͡l] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "fable" is rather straightforward. It is spelled F-A-B-L-E and pronounced /ˈfeɪ.bəl/. The first sound is a long "A" sound, as in "H-A-T." The second sound is a soft "B" sound, followed by a short "UH" sound, and then a silent "E." The final sound is a soft "L" sound. A fable is a short story with a moral lesson, often featuring animals or inanimate objects as characters.
A fable is a narrative literary genre that typically involves anthropomorphic animals, inanimate objects, or mythical creatures as characters. It is characterized by its brevity and simplicity, often conveying a moral or a lesson. Fables usually employ allegory or metaphor to teach about human nature, relationships, and virtues.
Typically, a fable follows a specific structure, featuring a concise plot and a clear moral message. The characters in a fable possess distinct personalities and traits that reflect common human attributes. They are often portrayed engaging in conversations and moral dilemmas that serve as a vehicle to convey the intended lesson.
The central purpose of a fable is to present its readers with a moral teaching, often showcased at the end of the story as a direct statement or maxim. These moral lessons can vary widely, expressing universal values such as honesty, kindness, humility, or wisdom. Fables have been used throughout history as a means of moral instruction for both children and adults.
Some well-known examples of fables include Aesop's Fables, which originated in ancient Greece, and the animal tales of the Indian collection Panchatantra. Fables continue to be popular in contemporary storytelling, as they offer timeless wisdom and remain effective tools for teaching valuable life lessons through the power of imaginative narratives.
• A short tale or story intended to instruct or amuse, the incidents of which are improbable; an idle story; a falsehood.
• To write fiction; to tell falsehoods; to feign.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "fable" comes from the Latin word "fabula", which means "narrative" or "story". In turn, "fabula" derives from the verb "fari", which means "to speak" or "to tell". The term was commonly used in Latin for various types of stories, including those that involved animals or inanimate objects with human characteristics, moral tales, and fictional narratives. From Latin, the word "fable" made its way into English during the Middle Ages, retaining its original meaning and gaining the specific connotation of a story that imparts a lesson or moral.
