: 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.
McMahon's first words to the committee, after the usual thank-you's, were a flag-planting for the department's forceful dissolution. Cory Turner, NPR, 14 May 2026 Following the release, Danna posted a thank-you message to the club on his official Instagram account. Pete Sweeney may 11, Kansas City Star, 11 May 2026 An everlasting thank-you card fulfilling the wishes of any mom who may be feeling unappreciated, exhausted, or neglected? Erik Adams, The Atlantic, 10 May 2026 David Moyes may be expecting a thank-you note from his former Everton player Mikel Arteta after their 3-3 draw with Manchester City on Monday tilted the title race in Arsenal’s favour, leaving them only needing to take care of their own business across the final three games. Sukhman Singh, New York Times, 8 May 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

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Cite this Entry

“Thank-you.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thank-you. Accessed 18 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

thank-you

noun
ˈthaŋ-ˌkyü
: a polite expression of one's gratitude
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