say-so

[ sey-soh ]

noun

, plural say-sos.

1. one's personal statement or assertion.
2. final authority; directing influence.
3. an authoritative statement.

say-so

noun

1. an arbitrary assertion
2. an authoritative decision
3. the authority to make a final decision

Word History and Origins

Origin of say-so¹

First recorded in 1630–40; originally, one's mere word on a matter, as opposed to proof

Example Sentences

Compston managed all this without the say-so of the Courtauld, which sent him a stinging letter.

From The Daily Beast

Marchman takes it as a given that MLB basing its case on the say-so of a sketchy Floridian drug-dealer is preposterous.

From The Daily Beast

Maybe Marie would wish then that she had thought twice about quitting him just on her mother's say-so.

From Project Gutenberg

Why, Richmoor and I very near came to quarrelling point because I would not frame my opinions by his say-so.

From Project Gutenberg

The bank folks ain't goin' to take any one's say-so for him.

From Project Gutenberg

She looked kinder mad and dignified at mother and Cousin Eunice because they hadn't asked her for her say-so about bands.

From Project Gutenberg

It is just possible that I took him through from New York without a train, by the mere say-so of my pen.

From Project Gutenberg