1
: a paper that has on it the letters IOU, a stated sum, and a signature and that is given as an acknowledgment of debt
2

Examples of IOU in a Sentence

I don't have any cash, so I'll have to give you an IOU.
Recent Examples on the Web In the introduction of the episode of Celebrity IOU: Joyride that featured Zellweger, Anstead's co-host, Cristy Lee, talked about Zellweger's accent in the original film. Hannah Chubb, Peoplemag, 28 Feb. 2024 On Monday’s all-new episode of Celebrity IOU, the Ahsoka star, 44, surprises her longtime friend of over two decades, Sal, with a heartfelt home makeover. Natalia Senanayake, Peoplemag, 29 Jan. 2024 On Monday, the Celebrity IOU: Joyride host, 44, shared some photos on Instagram from son Hudson's Christmas performance with his class over the weekend. Angela Andaloro, Peoplemag, 18 Dec. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'IOU.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

from the pronunciation of I owe you

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of IOU was in 1795

Dictionary Entries Near IOU

Cite this Entry

“IOU.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/IOU. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

: a paper that has on it the letters IOU, a stated sum, and a signature and that is given to acknowledge a debt
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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