avunculicide

noun

avun·​cu·​li·​cide ə-ˈvəŋ-kyə-lə-ˌsīd 

plural avunculicides

: the killing of an uncle by his nephew or niece

This is not the place to relate the circumstances of every case of Fratricide, but some are of more particular interest. The first may more properly be described as "avunculicide," for it was his uncle … whom Osman I got rid of in 1298 …

—Anthony Dolphin Alderson, The Structure of the Ottoman Dynasty, 1956

Word History

Etymology

Latin avunculus "maternal uncle" + -i- + -cide

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now