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
Synonyms
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
Audrey Noble, Vogue, 23 Nov. 2024
Well of Radiance-using devil Exo as my big pull who is yes, better than all my other characters instantly.
—Paul Tassi, Forbes, 2 Nov. 2024
Peter Baugh, The Athletic, 23 July 2024
Keeping his promise, the then-aspiring singer returned in 2010 and earned yeses across the board, eventually going on to form One Direction.
—Jade Gomez, People.com, 17 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for yes 
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Adverb
The short answer to this is yes, cold showers can be good for you.
—Audrey Noble, Vogue, 23 Nov. 2024
Well of Radiance-using devil Exo as my big pull who is yes, better than all my other characters instantly.
—Paul Tassi, Forbes, 2 Nov. 2024
Noun
Procedurally, a successful candidate needs 14 of 18 yes votes from the selection committee to gain admission to the Hall — no small feat, considering how many strong personalities populate the selection committee.
—Peter Baugh, The Athletic, 23 July 2024
Keeping his promise, the then-aspiring singer returned in 2010 and earned yeses across the board, eventually going on to form One Direction.
—Jade Gomez, People.com, 17 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for yes
Dictionary Entries Near yes
Cite this Entry
“Yes.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yes. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
yes
1 of 2 adverb
ˈyes 
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 nounˈyes
: a positive reply
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