saying

noun

say·​ing ˈsā-iŋ How to pronounce saying (audio)
Synonyms of sayingnext
: something said
especially : adage

Synonyms of saying

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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.
Like the saying goes, hurt relieves hurt. — Marc Topkin, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 June 2026 An espresso shot a day keeps the doctor away, or however the saying goes! — Daisy Maldonado, InStyle, 26 June 2026 One popular saying suggests a knot tied on a rainy day is harder to untie. — Bryan West, USA Today, 4 July 2026 Many families have their own remedies for treating these pesky bites—but as the old saying goes, prevention is better than the cure. — Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 27 June 2026 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

Phrases Containing saying

Rhymes for saying

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Browse Nearby Words

say hi to
saying
say it all
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

saying

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

More from Merriam-Webster on saying

Nglish: Translation of saying for Spanish Speakers

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