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Late 19th century
- There is no definitive history on the origin of the phrase, though there is plenty of speculation. The term, which is universally recognized as words that concede defeat (i.e., "I give up"), was traced back to the late 19th century, according to the website worldwidewords.org, and was used as a focal point in a joke.
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What does Cry Uncle mean?
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Feb 21, 2011 · ORIGINS OF 'CRY UNCLE'. Published Feb. 21, 2011. Why is the wrestling term "cry uncle," and not aunt or anything else? There is no definitive history on the origin of the phrase, though there is ...
is an indication of submission—analogous to "I give up!"—or it may be a cry for mercy, in such a game or match. Origin. There are several theories on the phrase's origin. Due to heavy Irish immigration in eastern Canada and New England in the 19th century, it is likely an anglicization of the Irish 'anacal', meaning deliverance or quarter.
Nov 28, 1998 · But why uncle? Interestingly, the earliest examples — found by Dan Norder — are all in the form of a joke. This has a number of forms which appeared in various US newspapers from 1891 through to about 1907 (and which reappeared in the early 1940s), often on the children’s pages.
This phrase originated about 1900 as an imperative among school-children who would say, "Cry uncle when you've had enough (of a beating)." By the mid-1900s it was being used figuratively, as in the examples. See also: cry, uncle. The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
The title itself, “Cry Uncle,” implies surrender and seeking refuge. It’s an admission that sometimes we need to let our guard down and ask for help when we feel overwhelmed. Throughout the song, the lyrics evoke a sense of desperation and longing.
- Dwight Wells
This phrase originated about 1900 as an imperative among school-children who would say, “Cry uncle when you've had enough (of a beating).” By the mid-1900s it was being used figuratively, as in the examples.
Aug 31, 2023 · cry uncle (third-person singular simple present cries uncle, present participle crying uncle, simple past and past participle cried uncle) (US, colloquial) To beg for mercy; to give up, admit defeat. [from 19th c.]
