Definition

Proper noun 1. An American patriot and silversmith: Paul Revere was a historical figure known for his role in the American Revolution, particularly for his "midnight ride" to alert colonial militia of the approach of British forces. He was also a skilled artisan and industrialist.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Paul Revere is a famous figure from American history.
  • The poem "Paul Revere's Ride" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow immortalized his story.
  • As a silversmith, Paul Revere created beautiful and functional objects.

Advanced Usage

• "Paul Revere's Ride": This phrase specifically refers to the historical event on the night of April 18, 1775, and is also the title of the famous 1860 poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow that dramatized the event.
  • The tale of Paul Revere's Ride is taught in many American schools.

Variants and Related Words

• Revere, Paul: The formal, inverted name format.
• Midnight Ride: The term for the specific historical event with which Paul Revere is most associated.

Synonyms

• Patriot: A person who vigorously supports their country and is prepared to defend it against enemies.
• Courier: A messenger who transports information, especially in historical contexts.

Related Phrases

• "The British are coming!": The legendary warning attributed to Paul Revere during his ride. (Note: Historical accounts suggest his actual words were more likely "The Regulars are coming out.")
  • The cry "The British are coming!" is famously linked to Paul Revere.

Related Idioms

• "One if by land, two if by sea": A phrase from Longfellow's poem describing the signal system (lanterns in the Old North Church) used to inform Revere of the British route. It has become an idiom for having a pre-arranged plan or signal.
  • They had a simple plan: one if by land, two if by sea.

Noun

1. American silversmith remembered for his midnight ride (celebrated in a poem by Longfellow) to warn the colonists in Lexington and Concord that British troops were coming (1735-1818)