noun
uncle
UNG-kuhl/ˈʌŋkl/
A parent's brother or brother-in-law.
The family tree identifies the mother's brother as the child's uncle.
Etymology
The Latin word meant “mother’s brother” and was literally a diminutive of “grandfather”—a “little grandfather.” English broadened the family relationship to include the brother of either parent.
In context
in my ongoing quest to be the favorite uncle, I told my nephews they can invite some of their friends over and my brother's family set up a neighborhood barbecue.
More examples
- My uncle is my mother's younger brother.
- Both of his uncles attended the graduation.
- She visits her uncle and aunt every summer.
Forms
uncle · uncles