# auntie

/ˈænti/ (US) · /ˈɑːnti/ (UK) · CEFR A2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/auntie
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a friendly or informal name for your aunt. In many cultures, people also use it to show respect to an older woman who is not a relative.

For teachers: an informal or affectionate term for the sister of one's parent. In various global English varieties, it serves as a respectful honorific for unrelated older women.

## Examples

- My auntie always brings the best cake to our family dinners.
- In many South Asian communities, it is polite to address any older woman as auntie to show respect.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used as a term of address; often capitalised when used as a title before a name.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.