Uncle facts for kids
An uncle is a special family member. An uncle is usually the brother of your parents. You are their nephew (if you're a boy) or niece (if you're a girl). Their children are your cousins. A great-uncle (or grand-uncle) is the brother of your grandparents.
In some cultures, an uncle is a very important family member. For example, in old China, the oldest son in a family was sometimes seen as the head of the family. This meant an uncle could be a very important leader for the whole family. In many cultures, there isn't just one word for "uncle." Instead, there are different words depending on whether they are your mother's brother or your father's brother.
Sometimes, "uncle" is used as a kind and respectful name for someone who isn't related to you by blood or marriage. An example of this is Uncle Sam, a famous symbol for the United States.
Types of Uncles
There are different ways someone can be called an uncle, depending on how they are related to you.
Family Connections
- Uncle: This is the brother of your parent.
- Half-uncle: This is your parent's half-brother. A half-brother shares only one parent with your parent.
- Granduncle / Great-uncle: This is the brother of your grandparent.
- Great-granduncle / Great-great-uncle: This is the brother of your great-grandparent.
In-Law Relations
An "in-law" relationship means someone is related to you through marriage, not by blood.
- Uncle-in-law: This can be the husband of your Aunt (your parent's sister) or the uncle of your spouse.
Related pages
Images for kids
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Uncles by Generation
