naysayer

noun

nay·​say·​er ˈnā-ˌsā-ər How to pronounce naysayer (audio)
-ˌser
Synonyms of naysayernext
: 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
ˈnā-ˌsā-iŋ How to pronounce naysayer (audio)
noun

Synonyms of naysayer

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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
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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.
The naysayers have had their say. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 14 June 2026 Notice how many naysayers there are. — Harriette Cole, Mercury News, 10 June 2026 Heading into this World Cup, there were a lot of naysayers. — Charlie Davies, New York Times, 13 June 2026 This gives everyone permission to be a critic, instead of being labeled as a naysayer. — William Decourcy, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026 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

Rhymes for naysayer

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Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Naysayer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/naysayer. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on naysayer

Nglish: Translation of naysayer for Spanish Speakers

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