avuncular

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Abdul-Aal, a 72-year-old retired high school sociology teacher with an avuncular smile, likened residents’ behavior around Israeli troops to a lazy student hoping they’re not called on in class.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

Here is the quintessential Westerner about to transform himself from Honest Abe the rail-splitter into Father Abraham, the avuncular statesman capable of handling the looming crisis over disunion and slavery.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 13, 2026

She finds help in the avuncular Rabbi Meyer, who steps in as her guardian and advises, “you must learn how to act according to what people say and do, not what they wish or fear.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 30, 2026

“Precise and circumspect, with an avuncular demeanor and an authoritative voice .... Summerall indulged his partner’s many appetites and asides, even when that meant being elbowed aside at the mike and in the limelight.”

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 8, 2024

Dr. Achufusi, an avuncular and pleasant man, pressed at Ifemelu’s side and announced, “It’s your appendix, very inflamed. We should get it out quickly.”

From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie