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

Unfortunately, in the incessant pandemonium of perpetual investigations and breaking news concocted of sound bites, feeding on the dumbing of America, the Dutch uncle’s intended audience is not listening.

From Washington Post

"Dicky," said the riding-master, "I'm going to talk to you like a Dutch uncle."

From Project Gutenberg

He is teacher, guide, philosopher, and Dutch uncle.

From Project Gutenberg

I have never heard what he said, but according to accounts he made good his threat to talk to Buno "like a Dutch uncle".

From Project Gutenberg

"I saw him talking like a Dutch uncle when I was waiting for you to come along this noon."

From Project Gutenberg