Aunt
UK /["/ɑːnt/"]/US /["/ænt/"]/
Definition
the sister of your father or mother; the wife of your uncle or aunt
In simple words: Your parent's sister.
Examples
- Aunt Alice
- My aunt lives in Canada.
- Great Aunt Emily
- Mathilde lives with her aunt and uncle on a small farm.
Usage notes
Use 'aunt' when talking about family relationships. It's appropriate in almost all contexts, but typically used among friends and family rather than formal situations.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of 'aunt' as 'auntie' – like a caring lady in your family.
Collocations
- elderly
- maiden
- spinster
Synonyms
- auntie
- relative
- family member
- sister-in-law
Antonyms
- uncle
Common mistakes
- Confusing 'aunt' with 'ant', the insect.
- Using 'aunt' when referring to a non-blood relative or family friend.
- Mixing up 'aunt' with 'uncle'.