yay

¹ American  

[yey] / yeɪ /

interjection

Informal.

1. (an exclamation used to express joy, excitement, etc.)

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yay ² American  

[yey] / yeɪ /

Or yea

adverb

Informal.

1. to the extent, amount, etc., indicated.

   The doll is about yay high.

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yay British  

/ jeɪ /

interjection

1. informal an exclamation indicating approval, congratulation, or triumph

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Etymology

Origin of yay¹

First recorded in 1960–65; perhaps alteration of yeah

Origin of yay¹

Probably < yea

Example Sentences

She was savvy enough to maintain what she called her “yay folder” in her former position.

From The Wall Street Journal

People who make this a habit refer to the collection of accolades as a “brag binder,” “yay folder” or “smile file.”

From The Wall Street Journal

I hadn't thought about it till it came out in the press, so yay, yay for me.

From Barron's

“Yay!” yips Birch, and they all start trotting down the hill toward the water.

From Literature

She also kept a digital folder, labeled “Yay,” where she recorded praise from clients and goals she surpassed.

From The Wall Street Journal