Nay/neɪ/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Old-fashioned No Learners should be aware that 'nay' is rarely used in modern conversation and can sound outdated. Do you like modern music? Nay, I prefer classics. Pro Tip 2/3Emphatic Denial 'Nay' can be used to strongly reject a notion, often more forceful than a simple 'no'. Would you betray your principles? Nay, never! Pro Tip 3/3Literary Usage 'Nay' is commonly found in older literature, poetry, and historical texts. Nay, milord, I shall not yield!