Avuncular
[ə-vən-kyoo-lər]
Part of speech: adjective
Origin: Latin, mid-19th century
1.
Relating to an uncle
2.
Suggestive of the warm feelings between a man and his siblings' children
Examples of Avuncular in a sentence
"He has a genial smile and avuncular friendliness that lead many to refer to him as uncle, even if he isn't related to them."
"My mom's brother treated me with a kind, avuncular attitude when I was a child."
About Avuncular
While in a strict sense avuncular has to do with the relationship between an uncle and his nieces and nephews, it can be applied to any male who displays a kind and indulgent attitude toward young(er) people.
Did you Know?
The Latin root of avuncular — avunculus — originally signified the relationship specifically with one's maternal uncle, but common usage has expanded the word to embrace the connection with any uncle.
