haystack

noun

hay·​stack ˈhā-ˌstak How to pronounce haystack (audio)
1
: a stack of hay
2
: a vertical standing wave in turbulent river waters

Examples of haystack in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Getting a great deal on a flight is starting to feel like searching for that proverbial needle in a haystack. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 19 Oct. 2024 Pulling molecules of planet-warming carbon dioxide straight from the air has been likened to finding needles in a haystack. Bywarren Cornwall, science.org, 2 Oct. 2024 The nut is also often included in candies and chocolates such as in cashew brittle, haystacks, chocolate clusters and more. Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 18 Aug. 2024 Instead of continuing to look for needles in a haystack, governments should overhaul their approach to countering terrorist funding, shifting their focus away from the financial sector and embracing a broader strategy that includes diplomatic, military, and law enforcement options. Peter R. Neumann, Foreign Affairs, 13 June 2017 See all Example Sentences for haystack 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'haystack.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of haystack was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near haystack

Cite this Entry

“Haystack.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/haystack. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

haystack

noun
hay·​stack -ˌstak How to pronounce haystack (audio)
: a stack of hay

More from Merriam-Webster on haystack

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!