YMCA

noun

ˌwī-ˌem-(ˌ)sē-ˈā 

: an international organization that promotes the spiritual, intellectual, social, and physical welfare originally of young men

—usually used with the

a member of the YMCA

—sometimes shortened informally to the Y

Examples of YMCA in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

According to the same announcement, Fuller was also a charitable contributor to the MaineGeneral Medical Center, Kennebec Historical Society, Cony High School, Kennebec Valley YMCA, Old Fort Western, which is a historic landmark in Augusta, as well as a local library. —Peter D'abrosca, FOXNews.com, 18 Feb. 2026

All proceeds from this event will support Chinatown YMCA's youth and teen programs, social services for low-income families, and financial assistance for families. —Noe Padilla, USA Today, 17 Feb. 2026

During the peak of the Great Migration, the YMCA turned away 20 travelers a day. —Christopher Borrelli, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026

And with the help of her swimming buddy/husband, and a tandem bike, Kate Varns did the impossible once again — finishing a YMCA triathlon. —Susan-Elizabeth Littlefield, CBS News, 15 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Young Men's Christian Association

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

YMCA

noun

ˌwī-ˌem-(ˌ)sē-ˈā 

: an international organization that promotes the spiritual, intellectual, social, and physical welfare originally of young Christian men

Etymology

Young Men's Christian Association