Dutch uncle

noun

: one who admonishes sternly and bluntly

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Dutch uncle was in 1832

Rhymes for Dutch uncle

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Browse Nearby Words

dutch treat
Dutch uncle
dutch vermilion
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Cite this Entry

“Dutch uncle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Dutch%20uncle. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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