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noun

unnie

UH-nee

Unnie (noun) means an affectionate Korean-derived term a woman uses for an older sister or an older female friend. Example: “She called her roommate \"unnie\" even though they weren't related.”

noun
1
An affectionate Korean-derived term a woman uses for an older sister or an older female friend.
"She called her roommate \"unnie\" even though they weren't related."
2
A senior female member of a K-pop group, from the same term.
"Fans praised the group's unnie for looking out for the younger members."

How to use unnie

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA warm, informal way for a woman to address an older sister-like figure, popularized through K-pop and Korean dramas.

Word forms

unnies plural

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She called her roommate \"_____\" even though they weren't related.

Etymology

Borrowed from Korean 언니 (eonni), meaning an older sister of a woman.

Origin: Korean

Rhymes for unnie

See all rhymes for unnie →

Frequently asked questions

What does “unnie” mean?

The word “unnie” means an affectionate Korean-derived term a woman uses for an older sister or an older female friend. In plain terms, a warm, informal way for a woman to address an older sister-like figure, popularized through K-pop and Korean dramas.

How do you pronounce “unnie”?

“Unnie” is pronounced UH-nee (/ˈʌni/ in IPA).

How do you use “unnie” in a sentence?

Here is “unnie” used in a sentence: “Fans praised the group's unnie for looking out for the younger members.”

What part of speech is “unnie”?

“Unnie” is a noun.

Where does the word “unnie” come from?

The word “unnie” comes from Korean. Borrowed from Korean 언니 (eonni), meaning an older sister of a woman.

How many meanings does “unnie” have?

“Unnie” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an affectionate Korean-derived term a woman uses for an older sister or an older female friend.

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