: an instance or gesture of approval or encouragement

Examples of thumbs-up 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.
Trump is shown holding the other side of the novelty check, grinning and giving a thumbs-up. Todd Spangler, Variety, 30 Sep. 2025 Bosworth reacted with a thumbs-up emoji. Chris Van Buskirk, Boston Herald, 28 Sep. 2025 Little Rock entrepreneur Ryan Byrd gives the program a thumbs-up. Jon Walker, Arkansas Online, 26 Sep. 2025 As he was driven away, Matthews raised a thumbs-up to the crowd, drawing an ovation from USC fans and a huddle of his Spartans teammates, who circled together in support before returning to the sideline. Ira Gorawara, New York Times, 21 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for thumbs-up

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thumbs-up was in 1892

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Cite this Entry

“Thumbs-up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thumbs-up. Accessed 7 Oct. 2025.

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