English Explanatory Dictionary

gainsay

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To say something in contradiction to.

Pronunciation

/ɡeɪnˈseɪ/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-gainsay.wav /ˈɡeɪnˌseɪ/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Naomi Persephone Amethyst (NaomiAmethyst)-gainsay.wav

Word forms

gainsay gainsays gainsaying gainsaid

Etymology

From Middle English gainsayen, ȝeinseggen (“to say against, say in opposition to”), equivalent to gain- + say. Compare Old Danish gensige (“to speak against; gainsay”), Swedish gensaga (“a speaking against; protest”).

Synonyms

controvert deny dispute refute withsay

Derived words

gainsayable gainsayer gainsaying ungainsaid ungainsaying
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