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 old saying goes, blood — and directorial instincts — are thicker than water. Josh Weiss, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025 An old saying suggests a series isn’t a series until the road team wins a contest on the opponent’s home floor. Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 8 May 2025 With 365 beaches rimming this island of just over 100 square miles, there's a different one for every day of the year, the saying goes. Carley Rojas Avila, Travel + Leisure, 3 May 2025 Jot down her recipes, sayings, or life hacks in one place. Dominique Fluker, Essence, 2 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 20 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

saying

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

More from Merriam-Webster on saying

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