saying

noun

say·​ing ˈsā-iŋ How to pronounce saying (audio)
: something said
especially : adage

Examples of saying in a Sentence

there's an old saying that you should let sleeping dogs lie
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.
As the saying goes, the comeback is greater than the setback. Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 22 May 2025 Final Thoughts There’s a saying in sustainability circles: The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago; the next best time is right now. Emmanuel Carrillo, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025 Running over the course of eight years and six seasons, the series has brought home 15 Primetime Emmys and critical acclaim, but as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. Michileen Martin, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 May 2025 But, as the saying goes, no one wins in a trade war. David Goldman, CNN Money, 12 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for saying

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of saying was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Saying.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/saying. Accessed 1 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

saying

noun
say·​ing
ˈsā-iŋ
: something frequently said : proverb

More from Merriam-Webster on saying

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!