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1
uncle-like in character
- At every family reunion, his avuncular presence brought laughter to the kids.
- The old photograph showed him in an avuncular pose with his nieces on his knee.
- Uncle Marcus offered avuncular commentary on my college essays.
- During the will reading, his avuncular smile reassured the nervous relatives.
- The novel's avuncular mentor carried stories of his own youthful adventures.
2
warmly supportive or protective toward someone younger or less experienced
- The professor's avuncular guidance helped me navigate my first research project.
- The senior editor adopted an avuncular tone in her feedback on my draft.
- His avuncular pep talks kept the rookie team motivated through every setback.
- Even via email, his avuncular sign-off—"Here if you need me!"—felt reassuring.
- The coach's avuncular wink before the match eased the young player's jitters.