WordGarden.iouncle
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈʌŋkəl/
US
- /ˈəŋkəl/
Meanings
Noun
a parent's brother, or the husband or partner of an aunt
an older man treated like a family elder or addressed with respect
Beyond the definition
An "uncle" is not just a family title; it often brings to mind someone kind, familiar, and fun. Usually, it means the brother of your mother or father, or the husband of your aunt. But people also use the word in a wider way. A close family friend may be called an uncle if he feels like part of the family. You might say, "My uncle always tells the best stories," or "I'm going to visit my uncle this weekend." In some families and communities, the word is also used for an older man who gives help, advice, or care, even when there is no blood relation.
The word "uncle" refers first to the brother of your mother or father, or to the man married to your aunt. This is the main meaning and the one most people learn first. It describes a family relationship through birth or marriage. In everyday life, though, the meaning can be wider than that. Many people have "honorary uncles" who are not actual relatives but are treated like family. This might be a close family friend, a trusted neighbor, or someone who has been present in a child's life for many years.
The word also has an important social use. In many cultures, especially in South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, people may call an older man "uncle" as a polite and friendly sign of respect, even when he is not related to them. In this use, the word shows warmth, closeness, or respect rather than exact family ties. A child might speak to a family friend this way, or a neighbor might be known by everyone as an uncle.
So while the word starts as a family term, it often carries a larger feeling of care, trust, and belonging. It can name a real relative, a relative by marriage, or a man who is accepted into the family circle by affection and custom.
Examples
- 1
Family visits
My uncle lives near the beach, so we visit him every summer.
- 2
Family title
Uncle David taught me how to ride a bike.
- Usage
Uncle + name is often used like a title in families.
- 3
Temporary stay
We're staying with my aunt and uncle while our apartment is being painted.
- 4
Family side
I have three uncles on my father's side.
- Phraseon my father's side
in my father's family
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Family friend
The kids all call our close neighbor Uncle Ray.
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- unclenoun
Forms
- unclespluralnoun