Dutch uncle

noun

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    One who reproves or advises in a blunt, stern but often kindly manner, intended for the benefit of the recipient.

    "Gruff but kindly, with dark-rimmed glasses prone to slip down his prominent ruddy nose and an unlit cigar habitually clenched in his teeth, he was everyone's Dutch uncle and let even strangers call him “Maggie” to his face."

  2. 2
    a male counselor who admonishes frankly and sternly wordnet

Etymology

From 1838.

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