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

When it convenes again to vote for 2028 induction, Rose would need an aye from a 75% majority — 12 of the 16 members.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2025

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

From Slate • Apr. 19, 2024

"I am scared really, I'm not a softy, I've been all over the world in funny situations but aye, I'm a little bit afraid."

From BBC • Mar. 1, 2022

Dad says, Och, aye, and Mam stares at the wall with tears in her eyes.

From "Angela's Ashes: A Memoir" by Frank McCourt