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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Attendees heard inspirational talks from Maria Shriver and Jamie Kern Lima, the co-founder of IT Cosmetics who triumphed over several naysayers and eventually sold her thriving business for $1.2 billion. Erin Jensen, USA TODAY, 31 Oct. 2024 In the years between the Olympics, naysayers had criticized the gold medalist for choosing to step back and focus on her mental health. Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 25 Oct. 2024 Trump fundraiser Bill White, who also spoke at the Charlotte event and is openly gay, pushed back on naysayers who question the former president’s commitment to the LGBTQ community. Matt Lavietes, NBC News, 24 Oct. 2024 Don’t listen to naysayers who tell you that your dreams are too lofty. Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 21 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 14 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on naysayer

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!