# unc

CEFR C2 · Noun

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

## Definition

a friendly way to address an older man, often used by younger people to show respect or a casual connection. It is a short way of saying 'uncle'.

For teachers: a colloquial term of address for an older male, typically used by younger speakers to denote a familiar or respected elder. A clipped form of 'uncle' that has gained significant traction in modern digital and youth slang.

## Examples

- What's up, unc? How have you been?
- The younger players on the court always look to unc for advice because he has been playing there for decades.
- While technically a familial term, the usage of 'unc' in urban environments functions as a social marker of seniority and communal respect among non-relatives.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used as a vocative or a title before a name in informal speech.

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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.