Dictionary entry

Say (2)

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Say (sā), n. [Aphetic form of assay.] 1. Trial by sample; assay; sample; specimen; smack.

If those principal works of God... be but certain tastes and says, as it were, of that final benefit. Hooker.

Thy tongue some say of breeding breathes. Shak.

2. Tried quality; temper; proof.

He found a sword of better say. Spenser.

3. Essay; trial; attempt.

To give a say at, to attempt. B. Jonson.