'naysayer' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'nay,' meaning 'no,' and 'sayer,' meaning 'one who says.'

'nay' transformed from Old Norse 'nei,' and 'sayer' from Old English 'secgan,' eventually becoming the modern English word 'naysayer.'

Initially, it meant 'one who says no,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person who habitually expresses negative views.'