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

Proceeds go to benefit at-risk children and families by giving them the chance to participate in programs and activities at the Fowler YMCA. — Mary Caldwell, AJC.com, 11 Aug. 2026

Officers were seen investigating inside the Lawson House, a former YMCA that provides supportive housing to the unhoused. — Adam Harrington, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026

The Surfrider Foundation’s Blue Water Task Force in San Diego County – in collaboration with the Clean Order Water Now programs and the local YMCA’s Camp Surf – have built a lab in Imperial Beach to test water quality and create more sampling sites. — Alexiah Syrai Olsen, Sacbee.com, 10 Aug. 2026

Hopper did not initiate the original protests but has helped organize community members opposing the sale through outreach and letter-writing campaigns aimed at YMCA board members and Attorney General Jeff Jackson. — Charlotte Observer, 8 Aug. 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