uncle
uncle
Pronunciation
The IPA phonetic spelling for "uncle" is /ˈʌŋ.kl̩/.
/ˈʌŋ/
/kl̩/
Word Form Variations
Noun: uncle (singular), uncles (plural)
Verb: (No direct verb form in common use. "Uncle" can be used informally as a verb in contexts like "to uncle" a child, meaning to act as an uncle, but this is rare).
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Noun
Definition 1: The brother of one's father or mother, or the husband of one's aunt.
Synonyms: kinsman, relative, family member, kin
Antonyms: aunt (as a contrasting family member); nephew, niece (as related but opposite generation)
Definition 2: (Informal) An affectionate or respectful term of address for an older man, especially one who is a friend of the family, even if not a biological uncle.
Synonyms: elder, respected male, family friend
Antonyms: young man, child
Definition 3: (Informal, often capitalized 'Uncle') A symbolic representation of a country or concept, often in political cartoons or propaganda.
Synonyms: personification, emblem, figurehead, symbol (e.g., Uncle Sam)
Antonyms: (No direct antonym, refers to a specific type of symbol)
Definition 4: (Informal, colloquial) Used as a call of surrender, typically in a playful or mock-struggle context.
Synonyms: surrender, yield, give up, quit
Antonyms: resist, fight, persevere, win
Examples of Use
Books:
"My Uncle John, a man of great wisdom and humor, always had the best stories to tell around the campfire." (Fictional example from a family saga or memoir)
"The book delves into the complex history of political cartoons, featuring prominent depictions of Uncle Sam and John Bull." (From a non-fiction book on political satire or visual communication)
"In this chapter, the young protagonist visits his eccentric uncle who lives in a secluded cottage by the sea." (Fictional example from a children's novel or adventure story)
Newspapers:
"The family announced the passing of their beloved uncle, a prominent community leader, at the age of 85." ("Daily Nation,")
"The cartoonist depicted Uncle Sam with a bewildered expression, reacting to the latest political scandal." ("The New York Times,")
"Local youth groups are appealing to 'village uncles' – respected elders – to mentor young entrepreneurs." ("The Standard,")
Online Publications:
"How to build a stronger relationship with your nieces and nephews: Tips for a great uncle." (An article on a parenting or family blog, e.g., Parents.com)
"The symbolism of Uncle Sam: A deep dive into America's enduring personification." (An article on a history or cultural studies website, e.g., Smithsonian Magazine online)
"Our online quiz helps you find out which celebrity uncle best matches your personality." (A humorous quiz on a pop culture website, e.g., Buzzfeed)
Various Entertainment Mediums and Platforms:
Film: "I want you for U.S. Army." (Iconic poster featuring Uncle Sam, referenced or depicted in many films, e.g., Captain America: The First Avenger, 2011)
Television Series: "My Uncle Phil used to say, 'Life's a game, and you gotta play to win!'" (Dialogue from a family sitcom, e.g., The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air)
Song Lyrics: "Uncle John's Band playing to the tide, come with me, or go alone, or whatever." (Grateful Dead, "Uncle John's Band," 1970)
Video Games: "Your character must visit your wise old uncle in the village for guidance on your next quest." (In-game dialogue or objective, e.g., The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past)
Podcasts: "In this episode, we explore the historical origins of the Uncle Remus folk tales and their cultural impact." (A podcast on folklore or literary history, e.g., Stuff You Should Know)
General Public Discourse:
"My Uncle Ken is coming to visit us this weekend." (A common statement about family)
"Say 'Uncle!'" (A common playful demand to someone in a mock-struggle, implying surrender)
"I saw a huge inflatable Uncle Sam at the Fourth of July parade." (An observation about a public event)
"My children love spending time with their favorite uncle." (A common statement about family relationships)
"He's like an uncle to me; he's always been there for advice." (Describing a close, non-biological relationship)
"That's a bit rich coming from you, Uncle!" (Informal address, sometimes used humorously or to express mild exasperation)
10 Quotes Using Uncle
"With great power comes great responsibility." (Attributed to Uncle Ben in Spider-Man, popularized by Stan Lee)
"I want YOU for U.S. Army." (Iconic World War I recruiting poster featuring Uncle Sam)
"Say 'Uncle!'" (Common idiom and demand for surrender in a playful context, widely recognized)
"My Uncle Phil used to say, 'Life's a game, and you gotta play to win!'" (James Avery as Philip Banks in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air)
"Uncle John's Band playing to the tide, come with me, or go alone, or whatever." (Grateful Dead, "Uncle John's Band," 1970)
"He was like an uncle to me, always there with advice." (Common relatable phrase describing a mentor figure)
"You're a disgrace to your country, your family, and your Uncle Sam." (Lesser-known, but often found in patriotic or military contexts)
"Uncle Remus, what kind of animal is that?" (Common line from the Uncle Remus stories or adaptations)
"My favorite relative is my crazy uncle who tells the best stories." (Original quote, reflecting a common family archetype)
"The best advice I ever got was from my uncle; 'Never trust a politician who smiles too much.'" (Original quote, reflecting common wisdom)
Etymology
The word "uncle" comes from the Old French word oncle.
This Old French word, in turn, came from the Latin word avunculus.
In Latin, avunculus specifically meant "maternal uncle" (mother's brother). It was also used more broadly for "a mother's brother" or "a great-uncle" or even "a kind, old man." It carried connotations of kindness and protection, sometimes distinct from the paternal uncle.
When "uncle" first entered the English language, in the late 13th century (around 1290), its initial meaning was "a brother of one's father or mother, or the husband of one's aunt." It replaced the older Old English word for uncle (eam).
So, the word has consistently referred to this specific family relationship for over 700 years. The informal uses, like "Uncle Sam" or "say uncle," are later developments that play on the familiarity or authority associated with the figure of an uncle.
Phrases + Idioms Containing Uncle
Here's a list of phrases and idioms using "uncle":
Uncle Sam: A personification of the U.S. federal government or the United States itself.
Say uncle!: An exclamation used to demand that someone surrender, typically in a playful or mock-struggle context.
Dutch uncle: A person who gives frank, harsh, and often unwelcome advice.
Uncle Tom: (Derogatory) A Black person considered to be excessively subservient to white people.
To play the Dutch uncle: To give stern, straightforward advice. (Synonymous with acting as a "Dutch uncle").
He's my favorite uncle: A common way to express affection for a specific uncle.
My rich uncle: (Informal) A hypothetical wealthy relative who might provide financial assistance.
To get an earful from Uncle Joe: To receive a long, often critical, lecture from an older male relative or friend. (Original, using a common informal name).
Family elder: A respected older member of a family. (Synonymous with a wise "uncle").
The cool uncle: (Informal) A male relative who is seen as particularly fun, relaxed, or stylish by younger family members.
To act like an uncle: To behave in a paternalistic or kindly, yet sometimes authoritative, way towards younger people.
My mother's brother: A direct, formal way to refer to one's maternal uncle. (Synonym).
The "Uncle" of the community: (Lesser-known) A respected male figure in a community, though not necessarily a blood relative.
Like a kindly elder: Exhibiting the benevolent wisdom often associated with an uncle figure. (Synonymous).
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of uncle from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
