it is a wise child that knows his own father
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
One can never be sure of one's paternity.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
[Launcelot Gobbo]. Do you not know me Father? [Old] Gob[bo]. Alacke ſir, I am ſand blinde, I know you not. Lan.^([sic]) Nay, in deede if you had your eyes you might faile of the knowing me: it is a wiſe Father that knowes his own child.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “it is a wise child that knows his own father” mean?
One can never be sure of one's paternity.
Is “it is a wise child that knows his own father” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.