nay
an old word for “no”
How often you will meet it
Rank 1,056 of 71,295 words measured. It occurs 17,365 times across 155,370 chapters — 0.008% of every word in the library.
What it means
exclamation
- an old word for “no”
adverb
- and more than that; or rather
nay in real books
Each sentence below was written by a published author and is taken from a different book in our library. Open one to read the passage it came from, with narration.
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Nay gran'ther, I would liefer tarry here.
The White Christmas and other Merry · Walter Ben Hare · Chapter 1
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And he said, "Nay, but his maiden daughter."
Famous Stories Every Child Should Know · Hamilton Wright [Editor] Mabie · Chapter 1
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I entreat you, nay, I command you, (says he) to desist from these intentions.
The Life and Most Surprising Adventures · Daniel Defoe · Chapter 1
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In sooth, I 'll have it; nay, I will but change My jewel for your jewel.
The White Devil · John Webster · Chapter 1
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Nay, even those who have lost their 'molares, incisores,' canine teeth, 'dentes sapientiae,' and all can masticate and inwardly digest thee!
Sketches by Seymour — Volume 04 · Robert Seymour · Chapter 1