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⇱ YES Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

Dictionary Definition
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1
β€”used as a function word to express assent or agreement
are you ready? Yes, I am
2
β€”used as a function word usually to introduce correction or contradiction of a negative assertion or direction
don't say that! Yes, I will
3
β€”used as a function word to introduce a more emphatic or explicit phrase
4
β€”used as a function word to indicate uncertainty or polite interest or attentiveness

yes

2 of 2

noun

plural yeses also yesses
: an affirmative reply : yea

Synonyms of yes

Examples of yes in a Sentence

Adverb yes, I'll be ready for the test tomorrow Noun We need a yes to go ahead with the project. She answered all the questions with yeses and nos.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Adverb
To a trader, a lot of this looks familiarβ€”essentially a yes-or-no bet on an outcome. β€”πŸ‘ Image
Bydoug Ashburn, Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 Apr. 2026 Denver City Council should vote yes. β€”πŸ‘ Image
Michael Hancock, Denver Post, 30 Mar. 2026
Noun
On the surface, those initial yeses can look like cooperation. β€”πŸ‘ Image
Jenna Ryu, SELF, 2 Apr. 2026 Of all the questions, this one is a yes. β€”πŸ‘ Image
Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 2 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for yes

Word History

Etymology

Adverb

Middle English, from Old English gΔ“se

First Known Use

Adverb

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1712, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of yes was before the 12th century

Phrases Containing yes

Rhymes for yes

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

β€œYes.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yes. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

yes

1 of 2 adverb
ˈyes πŸ‘ How to pronounce yes (audio)
ˈyeuΜ‡, 
ˈe-(y)Ι™
are three of many variants
1
β€”used to express agreement
are you ready? Yes, I am
2
β€”used to correct or contradict what another has said
don't say that! Yes, I will
3
β€”used to introduce a phrase with greater force or clearness
we are glad, yes, very glad to see you
4
β€”used to show interest or attention
yes, what is it you want

yes

2 of 2 noun
ˈyes
: a positive reply

More from Merriam-Webster on yes

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