: 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.
Career experts say sending a thank-you note after an interview is always a good idea. Sarah Jackson, CNBC, 27 May 2026 Inside, find prized artifacts like an official portrait of Napoleon and a handwritten thank-you note from Queen Elizabeth II. Jennifer Kester, Forbes.com, 25 May 2026 On her wedding day, the bride presented me with a lovely and thoughtful gift in the $50-$75 range as a thank-you for my role in her wedding. Judith Martin, Mercury News, 23 May 2026 And while a warm thank-you at the door is always appreciated, going one step further can make all the difference. Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 22 May 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 5 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

thank-you

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