yay
Yay (intj) means an exclamation of joy, approval, or celebration. Example: “Yay! We finally won the match!”
How to Use Yay
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA cheerful shout used to celebrate good news.
Don't confuse with the more formal, archaic "yea," meaning "yes."
Very informal; common in speech and text messages.
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____! We finally won the match!
Etymology
A modern celebratory exclamation, likely shaped by "yeah" and "hooray."
Related Words
Rhymes for yay
See all rhymes for yay →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “yay” mean?
The word “yay” means an exclamation of joy, approval, or celebration. In plain terms, a cheerful shout used to celebrate good news.
How do you pronounce “yay”?
“Yay” is pronounced yay (/jeɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “yay” in a sentence?
Here is “yay” used in a sentence: “Yay! We finally won the match!”
What part of speech is “yay”?
“Yay” is an intj.
Is “yay” a common word?
“Yay” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between "yay" and "yeah"?
"Yay" is an exclamation of joy, approval, or celebration, while "yeah" is an informal way of saying "yes." You cheer "yay!" but answer a question with "yeah."
What is the difference between "yay" and "yea"?
"Yay" expresses joy or celebration, whereas "yea" is an affirmative meaning "yes," used especially in voting. The traditional voting phrase is "yea or nay," not "yay or nay."
Is "yay" formal or informal?
"Yay" is informal and belongs to casual speech, texting, and celebration. It is out of place in formal or academic writing.
What is the difference between "yay" and "hooray"?
Both are cheerful exclamations celebrating something, and they are largely interchangeable. "Hooray" (also "hurray") can sound slightly more emphatic or old-fashioned than the breezy "yay."
Featured In
Vocabulary lists that include yay: