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
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.
Adverb
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 Key ingredients: glycerin, shea butter, silicone | Fragrance-free: yes Frequently asked questions What is the best thing to moisturize your feet with? Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 24 Oct. 2024
Noun
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 The Libra moon joining the South Node has your yeses catching up with you. USA TODAY, 29 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for yes 

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 29 Nov. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!