uncle

noun

un·​cle ˈəŋ-kəl 

1

a

: the brother of one's father or mother

b

: the husband of one's aunt or uncle

2

: one who helps, advises, or encourages

3

—used as a cry of surrender

was forced to cry uncle

4

capitalized : uncle sam

Examples of uncle in a Sentence

I have three uncles and two aunts.

My Uncle David is visiting next week.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Russian jeweler’s most celebrated female designer, Alma Theresia Pihl, hatched the ethereal concept while her uncle, workmaster Albert Holmström, executed the exquisite craftsmanship. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 3 Oct. 2025

In March, immigration agents showed up at Kordia’s home and workplace, as well as her uncle’s house in Florida. —Dave Smith, Fortune, 3 Oct. 2025

The dog owner's niece, who wished to stay anonymous, told Newsweek via TikTok that her uncle shared an inseparable bond with his dog, Oyo. —Liz O'Connell, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Oct. 2025

Light will play Lovell Mignott, May and Ellen’s uncle. —Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 2 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin avunculus mother's brother; akin to Old English ēam uncle, Welsh ewythr, Latin avus grandfather

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing uncle

• and Bob's your uncle
• Dutch uncle
• great-uncle
• say uncle
• uncle-in-law

Rhymes for uncle

• carbuncle
• peduncle
• siphuncle

Kids Definition

uncle

noun

un·​cle ˈəŋ-kəl 

1

: the brother of one's father or mother

2

: the husband of one's aunt or uncle