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.
According to February Gallup polling, 42 percent of Americans are giving a thumbs-up to Trump’s economic stewardship while 54 percent are giving him a thumbs-down. Approval of Trump’s handling of the economy also fell to 39 percent from 43 percent in polling released last week by Reuters/Ipsos. — Tobias Burns, The Hill, 1 Mar. 2025 From thumbs-up to thumbs-downs, here’s how critics are reacting. — Jennifer Zhan, Vulture, 22 Nov. 2024

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

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thumbs-down
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Cite this Entry

“Thumbs-down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thumbs-down. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

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