: an instance or gesture of approval or encouragement

Examples of thumbs-up 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.
Nearly one in four Gen Z professionals viewed the thumbs-up as rude or hostile. Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 3 July 2025 Throughout the 90-minute event, passing drivers honked in support and extended thumbs-up to the protesters. Calista Oetama, Sacbee.com, 1 July 2025 In the arenas of ancient Rome, the thumbs-up was a matter of life and death. Megan Garber, The Atlantic, 29 June 2025 Come for the special-effects bonanza, stay for a most epic thumbs-up. 19. Brian Truitt, USA Today, 21 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for thumbs-up

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thumbs-up was in 1892

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Cite this Entry

“Thumbs-up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thumbs-up. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

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