Uncle Sam

noun

Un·​cle Sam ˌəŋ-kəl-ˈsam 

1

: the U.S. government

2

: the American nation or people

Examples of Uncle Sam in a Sentence

Uncle Sam wants you to join the Army!

Recent Examples on the Web

However, the tax strategy still has value for individuals and families who want to preserve their land and pay less to Uncle Sam, lawyers who specialize in conservation easements told CNBC. — Hayley Cuccinello, CNBC, 23 July 2026

In Uncle Sam’s case, that means the printing press behind him. — Brett Owens, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

Pull into the small town of Luverne and the figure — a nearly 66-foot (20-meter) tall nutcracker, decked out like Uncle Sam — comes into full view. — ABC News, 21 July 2026

John Saint Paul of Kansas City was dressed up as Uncle Sam, walking around with his head high and his patriotism on full throttle after the loss. — Rashad Alexander, Kansas City Star, 8 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

expansion of U.S., abbreviation of United States

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for Uncle Sam

• abraham
• anagram
• cablegram
• cofferdam
• dendrogram
• diagram
• diaphragm
• epigram
• hexagram
• histogram
• hologram
• instagram

Kids Definition

Uncle Sam

noun

Un·​cle Sam ˌəŋ-kəl-ˈsam 

1

: the U.S. government thought of or represented as a person

2

: the American nation or people