gainsay

[ geyn-sey, geyn-sey ]

verb (used with object)

, gain·said, gain·say·ing.

1. to deny, dispute, or contradict.
2. to speak or act against; oppose.

gainsay

/ ɡeɪnˈseɪ /

verb

1. archaic.
   tr to deny (an allegation, a statement, etc); contradict

Derived Forms

• gainˈsayer, noun

Other Words From

• gainsayer noun
• un·gainsaid adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of gainsay¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, gainsay is from the Middle English word gainsaien. See again, say ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of gainsay¹

C13 gainsaien, from gain- against + saien to say ¹

Example Sentences

There’s no gainsaying the hunger of many in the crowd at Chicago’s United Center, and of Democrats across the country, to see Trump behind bars.

From Los Angeles Times

Nor can I gainsay the positions of those who argue that torture is justified in such a case.

From Seattle Times

They have provided little to no evidence to validate this drastic divestiture of combined-arms capability, and the war in the Ukraine gainsays this decision.

From Washington Post

As an Episcopal priest, I’d be the last person to gainsay the importance of prayer.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite Wilde’s grandstanding and equivocation, there was no gainsaying the testimony of various rent-boys detailing carnal concurrence.

From Washington Post