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
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.
There’s trying to find the needle in the haystack, and then there’s building a better magnet. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2025 Multiple needles, multiple haystacks Technology plays a key role in helping CBP to stay one step ahead. Adam Stone, USA Today, 15 Aug. 2025 Tracking down the best leave-in conditioner for fine hair can feel like searching for a needle in a holy-grail haystack. Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 5 June 2025 Teams had to choose between finding a bracelet in ginormous haystacks and delivering heaps of heavy wood via backpack and wheelbarrow, and both tasks turned out to be feats of strength. Nick Caruso, TVLine, 16 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for haystack

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Haystack.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/haystack. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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!