naysayer

[ney-sey-er]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of naysayer¹

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

Example Sentences

“Some people said it couldn’t be done, but I am so glad to stand here today and say that we have proved the naysayers wrong,” Bass said.

From Los Angeles Times

Stewart later asked the show's seven correspondents if the "naysayers and critics" were right.

From BBC

The Guadalajara fighter says he is not bothered about the naysayers.

From BBC

Despite the obstacles, the naysayers and the haters, Margo Price has always made the records she wanted to make, but this record feels a little different.

From Salon

“I want to just remind you all, as we are doing this advocacy, as we are fighting for our neighbors, that we are gonna run into naysayers,” Perez said after the person left.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cynic