aye

American  

[ahy] / aɪ /

adverb

1. yes.

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noun

1. an affirmative vote or voter, especially in British Parliament, corresponding to yea in U.S. Congress.

aye ¹ British  

/ aɪ /

1. yes: archaic or dialectal except in voting by voice

2. 1. an expression of compliance, esp used by seamen

   2. an expression of amused surprise, esp at encountering something that confirms one's suspicions, expectations, etc

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noun

1. 1. a person who votes in the affirmative

   2. an affirmative vote

aye ² British  

/ əɪ /

adverb

1. always; still

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Etymology

Origin of aye

First recorded in 1570–80; earlier spelling I, of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

Of the 199 aye votes, Democrats supplied 107 and Republicans 92.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 12, 2026

On one vote, Lindsey Graham, distracted in conversation with Cory Booker, voted aye when he meant to vote nay.

From Slate • Apr. 19, 2024

"Aye. 100% aye," he nods insisting that he has more hope for when is released this time, than ever before.

From BBC • Jan. 1, 2024

“I ask to be recorded as voting in person on the three nominees considered earlier, Mr. Chairman, and I vote aye now,” she said.

From New York Times • May 28, 2023

“Yes, sir...I mean—Aye, aye, sir. I’d like that fine.”

From "Carry On, Mr. Bowditch" by Jean Lee Latham