have-not

noun

ˈhav-ˌnät How to pronounce have-not (audio)
-ˈnät
Synonyms of have-notnext
: one that is poor especially in material wealth

Examples of have-not 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.
The statement is one among many hard-hitting aphorisms that ring devastatingly true for the state of our current world, as late-stage capitalism widens the gap between haves and have-nots, creating unsustainable conditions for millions of people. Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 15 May 2026 Retirement is yet another dividing line between the haves and have-nots. Boston Herald Editorial Staff, Boston Herald, 1 May 2026 Charging for parking moves us toward a system of haves and have-nots, where access to public spaces depends on your ability to pay. Mandy Havlik, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Apr. 2026 But in this clash of haves and have-nots, are Josh and Lindsay really among the privileged? Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 16 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for have-not

Word History

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of have-not was in 1836

Cite this Entry

“Have-not.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/have-not. Accessed 22 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

have-not

noun
ˈhav-ˌnät
-ˈnät
: one that is poor in material wealth

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