naysayer

noun

nay·​say·​er ˈnā-ˌsā-ər How to pronounce naysayer (audio)
-ˌser
: one who denies, refuses, opposes, or is skeptical or cynical about something
There are always naysayers who say it can't be done.
nay-saying noun

Examples of naysayer in a Sentence

There are always naysayers who say it can't be done. those naysayers who attack the integrity of the entire judicial system
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
So students and young professionals, let naysayers say no. IEEE Spectrum, 25 Nov. 2024 Her aspirations were firmly rooted in a desire to defy expectations and prove the naysayers wrong. Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 24 Nov. 2024 Lex Gillette, a legendary blind long jumper and five-time Paralympic silver medalist, lost his vision at age 8 and has always been inspired to prove his naysayers wrong. Mark Lasota, Ph.d., Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024 Brown was not the only person who wanted to prove the naysayers wrong, and see women participate in Rampage. Jayme Moye, Outside Online, 9 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for naysayer 

Word History

First Known Use

1721, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of naysayer was in 1721

Dictionary Entries Near naysayer

Cite this Entry

“Naysayer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/naysayer. Accessed 15 Dec. 2024.

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