: a polite expression of one's gratitude

Examples of thank-you in a Sentence

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.
Storrie’s cool kid realizes his mistake after Dirkus plays him a thank-you song. Rima Parikh, Vulture, 1 Mar. 2026 As part of the drive, which is running throughout the month of February, people who donate new or gently used footwear for men, women or children – or even new socks – receive a $10 thank-you coupon. Jessi Virtusio, Chicago Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026 And right now, the Golden State Warriors should be sending thank-you cards to every general manager and coach currently conspiring against their own roster winning games. Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 18 Feb. 2026 No matter what, always write a thank-you note. Phil Blair, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for thank-you

Word History

Etymology

from the phrase thank you used in expressing gratitude

First Known Use

1792, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thank-you was in 1792

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Thank-you.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thank-you. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

thank-you

noun
ˈthaŋ-ˌkyü
: a polite expression of one's gratitude
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster