noun

oom

uum

Oom (noun) means a respectful South African term for an older man, especially an uncle. Example: “The children greeted the old farmer as Oom Piet.”

noun

A respectful South African term for an older man, especially an uncle.

"The children greeted the old farmer as Oom Piet."

How to use oom

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA polite South African way to address or refer to an older man.

When to use it

Regional, mostly used in South African English and Afrikaans-influenced speech.

Word forms

ooms plural

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The children greeted the old farmer as _____ Piet.

Etymology

Borrowed from Afrikaans oom, meaning "uncle."

Origin: Afrikaans

Rhymes for oom

boom room zoom doom loom groom broom bloom gloom vroom kaboom bedroom

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Frequently asked questions

What does “oom” mean?

The word “oom” means a respectful South African term for an older man, especially an uncle. In plain terms, a polite South African way to address or refer to an older man.

How do you pronounce “oom”?

“Oom” is pronounced uum (/ʊəm/ in IPA).

How do you use “oom” in a sentence?

Here is “oom” used in a sentence: “The children greeted the old farmer as Oom Piet.”

What part of speech is “oom”?

“Oom” is a noun.

Where does the word “oom” come from?

The word “oom” comes from Afrikaans. Borrowed from Afrikaans oom, meaning "uncle.".

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Vocabulary lists that include oom:

Words with Dutch origins