uliteg
The Ilocano word for uncle is uliteg.
uliteg is a noun used to refer to the brother or brother-in-law of one's parent.
Meaning: brother (or brother-in-law) of someone’s parent (noun)
Which one should you use?
While uliteg is the standard term, Tiyo is also used to mean uncle.
Did you know?
- In traditional Ilocano social structures, the 'uliteg' is part of a complex web of kinship terms where the specific side of the family (maternal or paternal) can change the nuance of how a person is addressed.
- While uliteg is the kinship term, Ilocanos often use Tiyo as a title of respect when speaking directly to an uncle. Using the formal title is a common way to show deference to elders in the family.
- The use of Tiyo can act as a marker of social class or cultural assimilation within the Ilocos region. Using Spanish-influenced terms can sometimes signal a different level of formality or colonial heritage compared to using uliteg.
Example conversation
Maria and Ricardo are looking at an old family photo.
- MariaSiasino daytoy nga uliteg mo?Who is this uncle of yours?
- RicardoIsuna dayta ni Tito Ben.That is Uncle Ben.
- MariaNakaala kadi ni uliteg mo ti retrato?Did your uncle take the photo?
- RicardoWen, isuna ti nangala.Yes, he was the one who took it.
