unsay

[ uhn-sey ]

verb (used with object)

, un·said, un·say·ing.

1. to withdraw (something said), as if it had never been said; retract.

unsay

/ ʌnˈseɪ /

verb

1. tr to retract or withdraw (something said or written)

Word History and Origins

Origin of unsay¹

First recorded in 1425–75, unsay is from the late Middle English word unsayen. See un- ², say ¹

Example Sentences

Thus Foley massaged a deal with the first George Bush to unsay his 1988 pledge: "Read my lips- no new taxes."

From The Daily Beast

You will not pretend to unsay what you have said,” cried her eldest sister: “that would be making things worse.

From Project Gutenberg

Naomi regretted her words next moment; but it was too late to unsay them.

From Project Gutenberg

I have to unsay everything I said in criticism of that lovely poem.

From Project Gutenberg

He could not unsay what he had said, and to attempt to trim would only provoke her scorn.

From Project Gutenberg

But all the armies and statecraft of Europe cannot unsay what you have said.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• back down
• back off
• cancel
• deny
• disavow
• disown
• pull back
• recant
• renege
• renounce
• repeal
• repudiate
• rescind
• reverse
• revoke
• rule out
• take back
• withdraw