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

Holloway was a board member of the New World School of the Arts, the YMCA South Dade Family Center, the Concert Association of Florida, and the Jubilate Chorale. — Howard Cohen, Miami Herald, 29 July 2026

The coalition, formed by JD Hopper of Ballantyne, did not initiate the first protest but has helped organize community members who oppose the Morrison YMCA sale. — Charlotte Observer, 24 July 2026

In 2025, the Surfrider Foundation noted a new lab was established in Imperial Beach thanks to a collaboration between the San Diego Chapter’s BWTF Clean Border Water Now programs and the local YMCA’s Camp Surf. — Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 20 July 2026

Made possible by a $2 million commitment from the Kissler family, the 124-child Kissler Family Early Education Center will double the size of the Y’s current daycare, according to Meagan Ellis, chief development officer for the Treasure Valley YMCA. — Mark Dee july 17, Idaho Statesman, 17 July 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