: an international organization that promotes the spiritual, intellectual, social, and physical welfare originally of young men
usually used with the
a member of the YMCA
sometimes shortened informally to the Y

Examples of YMCA in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Monica, a single mom, works two jobs -- mostly remotely -- running a home-inspection business and also serving as a wellness supervisor for her local YMCA. Walter Villa, Miami Herald, 14 July 2025 Also in 1912: Harry Hebner, who learned how to swim at a YMCA in Chicago, won a gold medal during the Olympics in Stockholm with a time of 1 minute, 21 seconds in the 100-meter backstroke. Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2025 In addition, Point Loma Rotary supports various other causes, including the Point Loma YMCA, Point Loma/Hervey Library and leadership programs at local schools. Madison Beveridge, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 July 2025 The 48-apartment project complex would include a YMCA day care center and a community lounge that would include support space for Terry Reilly Health Services, according to an application for federal funding. Idaho Statesman, 6 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for YMCA

Word History

Etymology

Young Men's Christian Association

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of YMCA was in 1868

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Cite this Entry

“YMCA.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/YMCA. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

: an international organization that promotes the spiritual, intellectual, social, and physical welfare originally of young Christian men
Etymology

Young Men's Christian Association

More from Merriam-Webster on YMCA

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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