Dutch uncle

American  

noun

Sometimes Offensive.

1. a person who criticizes or reproves with unsparing severity and frankness.

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Dutch uncle British  

noun

1. informal a person who criticizes or reproves frankly and severely

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Dutch uncle Idioms  

1. A stern, candid critic or adviser, as in When I got in trouble with the teacher again, the principal talked to me like a Dutch uncle. This expression, often put as talk to one like a Dutch uncle, presumably alludes to the sternness and sobriety attributed to the Dutch. [Early 1800s]

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Sensitive Note

Because Dutch is used here to describe someone manifesting the opposite of warm, affectionate, typically avuncular behavior, this term is sometimes perceived as insulting to or by the Dutch. See also Dutch.

Etymology

Origin of Dutch uncle

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

Fresh from reputedly lecturing King Carol of Rumania for two hours like a Dutch uncle, M. Barthou wisely did not take that tone with King Alexander.

From Time Magazine Archive

Today their relationship is almost that of father & son� or son and Dutch uncle.

From Time Magazine Archive

Last week the highly respected Henry Kaufman, a partner in Salomon Bros, who often serves as Wall Street's Dutch uncle, called for the declaration of a "national economic emergency."

From Time Magazine Archive

Air Force playing the role of a straitlaced, old-fashioned Dutch uncle.

From Time Magazine Archive

"Mr. Ringold's talking to them now like a Dutch uncle," observed Joe, as he idly swung the crank of his camera, the machine not being in gear.

From The Moving Picture Boys on the War Front Or, The Hunt for the Stolen Army Films by Appleton, Victor [pseud.]