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naysayer

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noun nay·say·er \ ˈnā-ˌsā-ər , -ˌser \

Definition of naysayer

: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

play \ˈnā-ˌsā-iŋ\ noun

See naysayer defined for English-language learners

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Examples of naysayer in a Sentence

  1. There are always naysayers who say it can't be done.

  2. those naysayers who attack the integrity of the entire judicial system

Recent Examples of naysayer from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'naysayer.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of naysayer

1721

naysayer Synonyms

Synonyms
misanthrope, cynic, pessimist
Related Words
misandrist, misogynist; doubter, negativist, skeptic; belittler, critic, derider, detractor, scoffer; malcontent; defeatist, quitter
Near Antonyms
optimist, Pollyanna, positivist; idealist, sentimentalist

NAYSAYER Defined for English Language Learners

naysayer

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noun

Definition of naysayer for English Language Learners

  • : a person who says something will not work or is not possible : a person who denies, refuses, or opposes something

Learn More about naysayer

  1. See words that rhyme with naysayer Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for naysayer Nglish: Translation of naysayer for Spanish speakers

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Examples: naysayer in a Sentence