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

For the last seven years, Shipman has worked at the Haverford YMCA, caring for children and connecting with families. —Wakisha Bailey, CBS News, 17 Nov. 2025

But the grand old YMCA with its iconic red triangle still marches on. —Richard Selcer, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 Nov. 2025

Other organizations with flexible funding contracts include Dreams for Change, People Assisting the Homeless and YMCA of San Diego County. —Blake Nelson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Nov. 2025

For example, if a user is looking for an organization that works in early care and education, specifically equity in childcare, a user will see groups such as My Brother’s Keeper and the YMCA of Great Charlotte. —Desiree Mathurin, Charlotte Observer, 28 Oct. 2025

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