aye

[ahy]

adverb

1. yes.

noun

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

aye

¹

/ 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

noun

1. 1. a person who votes in the affirmative

   2. an affirmative vote

aye

²

/ əɪ /

adverb

1. always; still

Word History and Origins

Origin of aye¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of aye¹

C16: probably from pronoun I, expressing assent

Origin of aye²

Old Norse ei ever; Old English ā; compare Latin aevum an age, Greek aion aeon, aiei ever, always

Example Sentences

When MPs vote they walk through voting lobbies - either the Aye or the No lobby.

From BBC

Grey wood shingles, bay windows, and inside, the classic Olde New Englande/Rusty Scupper/Aye Matey/Cap’n Whats’s decor: hanging fishnets, hurricane lamps, buoys, nautical bric-a-brac, the bars fashioned from halved lifeboats.

From Salon

Aye, right - A sarcastic phrase - used ironically to express contempt or incredulity.

From BBC

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

Their chants of “Let’s go Kenya!” and “Kenya, aye!” in Kiswahili filled the stadium with vibrant energy.

From Los Angeles Times