Question

avuncular adjective Not all uncles are likeable fellows (Hamlet's murderous Uncle Claudius, for example, isn't exactly Mr. Nice Guy in Shakespeare's tragedy), but "avuncular" reveals that, as a group, uncles are generally seen as affable and benevolent, if at times a bit patronizing. "Avuncular" derives from the Latin noun "avunculus," which translates as "maternal uncle," but since at least the 1830s English speakers have used "avuncular" to refer to uncles from either side of the family or even to individuals who are simply uncle-like in character or behavior. And in case you were wondering, "avunculus" is also an ancestor of the word "uncle" itself. 1 : of or relating to an uncle2 : suggestive of an uncle especially in kindliness or geniality

Accepted Answer

October 5, 2009 uh-VUNK-yuh-ler The avuncular orthodontist joked with his young patient, attempting to set her mind at ease about getting fitted for braces.

Word	avuncular
Date	October 5, 2009
Type	adjective
Syllables	uh-VUNK-yuh-ler
Etymology	Not all uncles are likeable fellows (Hamlet's murderous Uncle Claudius, for example, isn't exactly Mr. Nice Guy in Shakespeare's tragedy), but "avuncular" reveals that, as a group, uncles are generally seen as affable and benevolent, if at times a bit patronizing. "Avuncular" derives from the Latin noun "avunculus," which translates as "maternal uncle," but since at least the 1830s English speakers have used "avuncular" to refer to uncles from either side of the family or even to individuals who are simply uncle-like in character or behavior. And in case you were wondering, "avunculus" is also an ancestor of the word "uncle" itself.
Examples	The avuncular orthodontist joked with his young patient, attempting to set her mind at ease about getting fitted for braces.
Definition	1 : of or relating to an uncle 2 : suggestive of an uncle especially in kindliness or geniality

Uncles Avuncular October Adjective Uh Vunk Yuh Ler Likeable Fellows Hamlet's