saying

say-ing · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A short, commonly known expression that conveys wisdom or a general truth.

  2. 2.

    The act of uttering or expressing something in words.

  3. 3.

    (present participle of say) Expressing in words.

Forms

plural: sayings

Related words

See also: adage, proverb, said, say
Synonyms: adage, aphorism, expression, maxim, proverb

Etymology

From Old English secgan ("to say") + -ing (noun-forming suffix). The nominal use of the present participle developed in Middle English to denote a statement or utterance, particularly one of proverbial wisdom.