Every time when I come across a proverb I don't know, I have a look how it was used in the context of the story. If you are learning the proverbs separately without any story behind, create your own story. Eg. Great boast, small roast. (we are talking about a person who talks a lot about the abilities and possibilities one has, but doesn't do much to prove it). Story might be short, my friend always tells me she is going to the university. Year after year has gone, and she hasn't even applied for the admission. Great boast, small roast. Something like this might help :)

There are 100's of proverbs. Here's a list www.learn-english-today.com/Proverbs/proverbs.html List of English proverbs and sayings used in everyday conversation, with their meaning.