Uncle Sam

noun

Un·​cle Sam ˌəŋ-kəl-ˈsam How to pronounce Uncle Sam (audio)
1
: the U.S. government
2
: the American nation or people

Examples of Uncle Sam in a Sentence

Uncle Sam wants you to join the Army!
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But while the country slims down, Uncle Sam keeps packing on the pounds. — Tom Price, Oc Register, 5 June 2026 But lenders can approve FHA loans without obtaining Uncle Sam’s approval each time. — Lew Sichelman, Miami Herald, 4 June 2026 After entering the ring, Apollo switches into an Uncle Sam costume. — ABC News, 13 June 2026 In O'Hare Terminal 1, travelers will hear live folk music and might catch a glimpse of Uncle Sam walking around. — Lauren Victory, CBS News, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for Uncle Sam

Word History

Etymology

expansion of U.S., abbreviation of United States

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Uncle Sam was in 1803

Rhymes for Uncle Sam

See All Rhymes for Uncle Sam

Browse Nearby Words

unclench
Uncle Sam
uncleship
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Uncle Sam.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Uncle%20Sam. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

Uncle Sam

noun
Un·​cle Sam ˌəŋ-kəl-ˈsam How to pronounce Uncle Sam (audio)
1
: the U.S. government thought of or represented as a person
2
: the American nation or people

More from Merriam-Webster on Uncle Sam

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Uncle Sam

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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