Yay: meaning, definitions and examples

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yay

 

[ jeɪ ]

Interjection
Context #1 | Interjection

expression of joy

The term 'yay' is an exclamation used to express happiness, excitement, or joy. It is often used in response to a positive event or situation. The utterance is typically loud and enthusiastic, signaling approval or celebration. This informal expression is popular in casual conversations, social media, and youth culture.

Synonyms

hooray, hurrah, yay-hoo

Examples of usage

  • Yay! We won the game!
  • I'm so excited for the party, yay!
  • Yay! It's finally the weekend!
  • She said yes to my proposal, yay!

Translations

Translations of the word "yay" in other languages:

🇵🇹 yay

🇮🇳 वाह

🇩🇪 juhu

🇮🇩 yay

🇺🇦 ура

🇵🇱 hurra

🇯🇵 イェイ

🇫🇷 ouais

🇪🇸 ¡yay!

🇹🇷 yaşasın

🇰🇷 예이

🇸🇦 ياي

🇨🇿 hurá

🇸🇰 hurá

🇨🇳 

🇸🇮 hurra

🇮🇸 jæja

🇰🇿 ура

🇬🇪 იეი

🇦🇿 yeh

🇲🇽 ¡yay!

Word origin

The word 'yay' comes from a kind of exclamation that has been used in various forms in English since at least the 19th century. Its exact origin is not definitively known, but it is thought to be a variant of the word 'yea,' which signifies agreement or affirmation. The usage of 'yay' has evolved over the years, particularly gaining traction in the 20th and 21st centuries as informal language began to permeate popular culture. Today, 'yay' is commonly used in various contexts, particularly among younger demographics, and is frequently seen in social media communications as a spontaneous display of joy or celebration. Its popularity reflects the playful and expressive nature of human communication, particularly in informal settings.