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
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.
Lex Gillette, a legendary blind long jumper and five-time Paralympic silver medalist, lost his vision at age 8 and has always been inspired to prove his naysayers wrong. Mark Lasota, Ph.d., Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024 Brown was not the only person who wanted to prove the naysayers wrong, and see women participate in Rampage. Jayme Moye, Outside Online, 9 Oct. 2024 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 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 3 Dec. 2024.

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