What does nay mean in shakespeare Romeo and Juliet?

In Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, the word "nay" is used with a variety of meanings. Most often, it means "no" or "not."

- For example, in Act I, Scene III, Romeo says, "Nay, I'll conjure thee by Rosaline's bright eyes," meaning that he will swear by Rosaline's beauty to convince the person he is speaking to.

- In Act II, Scene II, Juliet says, "Nay, I will take thee at thy word," meaning that she will agree to Romeo's request to stay with her.

- Another common meaning of the word is "on the contrary." For example, in Act III, Scene I, Mercutio says, "Nay, I'm the very pink of courtesy," meaning he considers himself the epitome of courtesy.

- The word "nay" is also used to emphasize a point. For example, in Act III, Scene II, Friar Lawrence says, "Thou art a fool, and full of darkness, nay," emphasizing the foolishness of the person, he addresses.