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
1
A respectful South African term for an older man, especially an uncle.
"The children greeted the old farmer as Oom Piet."
"He raised his glass. ‘Here's to you, Oom Ben,’ he said. ‘Give them hell.’"
— André Brink, A Dry White Season (1979)
How to use oom
Learner’s notesIn 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.
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Word forms
- Plural
- ooms
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The children greeted the old farmer as _____ Piet.
Etymology
Borrowed from Afrikaans oom, meaning "uncle."
Rhymes for oom
See all rhymes for oom →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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