thumbs-down

noun

ˈthəmz-ˈdau̇n How to pronounce thumbs-down (audio)
Synonyms of thumbs-downnext
: an instance or gesture of rejection, disapproval, or condemnation

Examples of thumbs-down 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.
Greg’s smile, contrasted with the frowns and thumbs-down from the rest of the crew, makes for an entertaining visual. — Erin Qualey, Vulture, 20 Apr. 2026 For opponents, that can feel like the tennis equivalent of a thumbs-down from a Roman emperor. — Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 3 Feb. 2026 Those patients can provide feedback on Emmie’s responses with simple thumbs-up or thumbs-down reactions. — Andrew Cunningham, ArsTechnica, 14 Apr. 2026 Ultimately, the Fillmore city council gave Aston the thumbs-down on Aston's bond idea. — Jay Adkisson, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for thumbs-down

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thumbs-down was in 1889

Rhymes for thumbs-down

See All Rhymes for thumbs-down

Browse Nearby Words

thumbscrew
thumbs-down
thumbstall
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Thumbs-down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thumbs-down. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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