naysayer

American  

[ney-sey-er] / ˈneɪˌseɪ ər /

noun

1. a person who habitually expresses negative or pessimistic views.

   Despite a general feeling that things were going well, a few naysayers tried to cast gloom.

---

Etymology

Origin of naysayer

First recorded in 1715–25; nay + say ¹ + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Sahir explained that with time they have been accepted as a couple, adding that they have "defied all odds and all the naysayers" and will this year celebrate 20 years of marriage.

From BBC

This classic investment strategy still could work, despite what the naysayers now say.

From MarketWatch

His career has been supercharged as much by naysayers as it has his charm and talent.

From BBC

That achievement is not perfection, which is commonly the bar set on social media by naysayers in search of clicks, but it is unequivocal excellence.

From Los Angeles Times

More than once, naysayers dismissed it as an “ER” retread – which, given that it stars Noah Wyle, who also executive produces alongside “ER” showrunner John Wells, is understandable.

From Salon

Related Words

• cynic