yankees

word

/ˈjæŋkiz/
YANG-keez
/ˈjæŋkiːz/
YANG-keez

Definition

“Yankees” can mean people from the northern United States, especially in historical or cultural contexts. It also very commonly refers to the New York Yankees, a famous baseball team.

Usage & Nuances

Most often, “Yankees” refers to the baseball team. In history or politics, it can mean northerners in the U.S., and outside the U.S. “Yankee” may sometimes mean an American in general. Capitalized “Yankees” usually points to the team or a proper group name.

Example Sentences

The Yankees won the game last night.

basic

My uncle is a big Yankees fan.

basic

She bought a Yankees cap in New York.

basic

I don't even watch baseball, but I recognize that Yankees logo anywhere.

natural

Around here, people either love the Yankees or can't stand them.

natural

During the Civil War, Southerners used Yankees to talk about people from the North.

natural