unc
noun
| UNK
A shortening of the word “uncle,” often used humorously to indicate old age
What does unc mean?
Unc is a slang term that is a shortening of the word “uncle.” It is often used humorously on the internet in the phrase “unc status” to imply that someone is old, getting old, or acting older than their age. Someone referred to as unc may also exhibit behaviors that are considered outdated or out of touch.
Examples of unc:
Matt Leinart’s son will be playing for SMU. We have reached unc status
—@19_loading, X (formerly Twitter), 6 Nov. 2024
Nothing in this world makes me feel as old as the Cowan [dining hall] aux does. Now, don’t get me wrong. They certainly play classics and I have no qualms about it. But a person can do without feeling like they’ve already hit unc status in their freshmen year. I mean, most of the music they play comes from the 70’s to 2010’s!
—
Where does unc come from?
Unc is commonly used in African American communities and African American English to refer to one’s uncle or an older male. Rap and hip-hop music have played a major role in unc becoming more mainstream over the years. An early example of unc in a rap song comes from Defari’s 2003 “For the Love,” in which he raps, “… yo that’s my unc.” Well-known rappers, such as Gucci Mane and J. Cole are often credited for popularizing the use of unc through their songs “On the Way” and “Brackets” in the 2010’s.
The current slang sense of unc seems to have gained traction on the internet around June 2021 when TikTok user @callmechosen85 posted a video of a younger person greeting him with, “Wassup unc.” He captioned the video, “When you realize you’ve OFFICIALLY reached ‘unc status’ …” accompanied by looks of disappointment and contemplation. The video captured the feeling of the moment someone realizes they’re no longer considered young.
How is unc used?
Unc is frequently used as a humorous insult especially in the phrase “unc status.” Someone who has reached unc status is thought of as “old,” engages in age-inappropriate activity, or generally gives off “uncle vibes.” Things that may earn one unc status are standing or sitting accompanied by grunts, using outdated technology, or constantly referencing their generation.
In African American English, unc can also be used as a term of endearment or respect for a male family member or an older community member. It is also sometimes used to humorously mock these people. For instance, prominent Black men in the entertainment industry such as Shannon Sharpe and Snoop Dogg are often referred to as unc on the internet as a sign of respect or a lighthearted reference to their age.
