saying

noun

say·​ing ˈsā-iŋ 

: something said

especially : adage

Synonyms

• adage
• aphorism
• apothegm
• byword
• epigram
• maxim
• proverb
• saw
• sententia
• word

Examples of saying in a Sentence

there's an old saying that you should let sleeping dogs lie

Recent Examples on the Web

There’s a saying that law is downstream from culture, said Greg Scott, a former longtime communications strategist for A.D.F., explaining the idea in an interview that a cause gains popular support first and then the law formalizes those beliefs. —Lisa Lerer, New York Times, 28 May 2024

But as the saying goes, elections have consequences. —Tom Steyer, Fortune, 28 May 2024

Here's another one that naturally trips people up upon first saying. —Brian Manzullo, Detroit Free Press, 18 June 2020

Read on for 10 common sayings that may do more harm than good—and what to say instead. —Michelle Crouch, Parents, 17 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing saying

• go without saying
• if you don't mind my/me saying so
• I hear what you're saying
• quote as saying
• that's not saying much
• there's no saying

Kids Definition

saying

noun

say·​ing

ˈsā-iŋ

: something frequently said : proverb