: 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.
Some moves might cost thousands, like meal vouchers, while others just need time and attention in a thank-you card. Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025 Once the innie enters the room, it is forced to engage in an activity which coincides with things Gemma fears (going to the dentist, airplane turbulence) or dreads (writing thank-you cards). Stephanie McNeal, Glamour, 21 Mar. 2025 Attendees will learn about local efforts to protect the Santa Monica Mountains and write thank-you letters to local rangers. Jaclyn Cosgrove, Los Angeles Times, 20 Mar. 2025 Arne’s thank-you message usually comes back straight away. Daniel Taylor, The Athletic, 14 Mar. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Thank-you.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thank-you. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

thank-you

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