Phrase guide

thumbs down

noun · verb · 3 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

noun

Meaning 1

A gesture signifying disapproval; a thumb pointing down out of a fist.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • He shook his head and gave a thumbs down.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: thumbs up

2

noun

Meaning 2

A rejection or refusal.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: figuratively

Examples

  • We requested permission but got a thumbs down.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: thumbs up

3

verb

Meaning 3

third-person singular simple present indicative of thumb down

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: form-of, indicative, present, singular, third-person

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

See thumbs up.