: a polite expression of one's gratitude

Examples of thank-you 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.
According to data from Accountemps, 80% of human resources managers said thank-you messages are factored into hiring decisions. Vicki Salemi, Boston Herald, 18 Jan. 2026 Chalamet didn’t really spotlight Jenner during last year’s awards tour, but this year she’s been front and center, getting another thank-you during the Globes speech. David Sims, The Atlantic, 12 Jan. 2026 Groceries, to-dos, important dates, thank-you notes to write, packing lists before trips—they’re all there. Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 9 Jan. 2026 One mommy sent flowers, then didn’t acknowledge her thank-you. Assistant Editor, Los Angeles Times, 7 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for thank-you

Word History

Etymology

from the phrase thank you used in expressing gratitude

First Known Use

1792, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thank-you was in 1792

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Cite this Entry

“Thank-you.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thank-you. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

thank-you

noun
ˈthaŋ-ˌkyü
: a polite expression of one's gratitude
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