hearsay

noun

ˈhir-ˌsā How to pronounce hearsay (audio)
Definition of hearsaynext
as in rumor
information or opinion that is widely disseminated without any authority or confirmation of accuracy supposedly, he's planning to quit, but that's only hearsay

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of hearsay Graf also denied Robinson’s motion seeking to prevent the state from relying on hearsay to establish probable cause at the preliminary hearing. — Mirna Alsharif, NBC news, 22 June 2026 Rather than operating on hearsay or memory, both of which are highly fallible, a flowchart outlines precisely what each section of a team is doing and allows everyone to work together in greater synchrony. — William Jones, USA Today, 30 Mar. 2026 Deputy District Attorney Rob Baker argued that allowing testimony about genocide and political motivations could invite hearsay and speculation. — Ryan MacAsero, Mercury News, 10 Dec. 2025 Former special counsel Jack Smith repeatedly sidestepped pointed questions about the credibility of January 6 committee witness Cassidy Hutchinson, despite previously acknowledging her most explosive claims amounted to secondhand hearsay. — Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 22 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hearsay
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hearsay
rumor
Noun
  • Supermodel Karlie Kloss also attended, seemingly putting to rest any rumors of a rift between her and Swift.
    — Zoe Sottile, CNN Money, 4 July 2026
  • Even so, rumors suggest that such glasses may not appear until late next year, so software support is more likely for iOS 28.
    — David Phelan, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026
Definition of rumor

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hears
hearsay
hearse
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Cite this Entry

“Hearsay.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hearsay. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on hearsay

Nglish: Translation of hearsay for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hearsay

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