saying

noun

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

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.
Read more The pathetic, slow-motion downfall of Barack Obama Houseguests and fish begin to smell after three days, as the saying goes. Aris Folley, The Hill, 17 Apr. 2025 As the saying goes, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Fernanda Galan, Sacbee.com, 16 Apr. 2025 Yankee Candle Lilac Blossom As the saying goes, April showers bring May flowers. Nicol Natale, People.com, 13 Apr. 2025 To amend a familiar saying, what happens in the Port of Los Angeles doesn’t stay in Los Angeles. Tom Philp, Mercury News, 12 Apr. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Saying.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/saying. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

saying

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

More from Merriam-Webster on saying

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!