saying

1 of 2

noun

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

saying

2 of 2

present participle of say entry 1

Synonyms of saying

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Noun

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Examples of saying in a Sentence

Noun there's an old saying that you should let sleeping dogs lie
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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.
Noun
But there is a saying in the military that leadership sets the tone, and when the most senior leaders are flippant at best, and cruel at worst, many will understand that to be the permissible standard. — Andrea N. Goldstein, The Atlantic, 28 Aug. 2026 There’s an old saying in football that the best gig is that of the assistant coach. — Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 27 Aug. 2026 As the saying goes, the cream always rises to the top — eventually. — Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 24 Aug. 2026 The saying comes from the Navy SEALs, a group Cole had become fascinated with through his years around San Diego. — Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for saying

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

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 2 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

saying

noun
say·​ing
ˈsā-iŋ
: something frequently said : proverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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