yes

1 of 2

adverb

1
used as a function word to express assent or agreement
are you ready? Yes, I am
2
used as a function word usually to introduce correction or contradiction of a negative assertion or direction
don't say that! Yes, I will
3
used as a function word to introduce a more emphatic or explicit phrase
4
used as a function word to indicate uncertainty or polite interest or attentiveness

yes

2 of 2

noun

plural yeses also yesses
: an affirmative reply : yea

Examples of yes in a Sentence

Adverb yes, I'll be ready for the test tomorrow Noun We need a yes to go ahead with the project. She answered all the questions with yeses and nos.
Recent Examples on the Web
Adverb
What has made each of them standouts is yes, their athletic achievements, but also their style and personality. Leigh Nordstrom, WWD, 9 Aug. 2024 Still, advocates say Harris’ presence could increase turnout, particularly among demographics that are more likely to vote yes, including younger voters and Black voters. Shira Moolten, Sun Sentinel, 29 July 2024
Noun
Each person goes through the list and marks which items are a yes, a maybe, or a definite no. Suzannah Weiss, Glamour, 4 Sep. 2024 There were a few people that seemed to already be there (at a yes). Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 15 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for yes 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'yes.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Adverb

Middle English, from Old English gēse

First Known Use

Adverb

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1712, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of yes was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near yes

Cite this Entry

“Yes.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yes. Accessed 18 Sep. 2024.

Kids Definition

yes

1 of 2 adverb
ˈyes How to pronounce yes (audio)
ˈyeu̇,
ˈe-(y)ə,
 are three of many variants 
1
used to express agreement
are you ready? Yes, I am
2
used to correct or contradict what another has said
don't say that! Yes, I will
3
used to introduce a phrase with greater force or clearness
we are glad, yes, very glad to see you
4
used to show interest or attention
yes, what is it you want

yes

2 of 2 noun
ˈyes
: a positive reply

More from Merriam-Webster on yes

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