Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

tio

noun
/ˈti.oʊ/
Definition
Tio is a Portuguese and Spanish word that means ‘uncle’ in English.
Examples
  • Meu tio veio me visitar ontem. (My uncle came to visit me yesterday.)
  • Os tios do Pedro sempre trazem presentes. (Pedro’s uncles always bring gifts.)
  • Ei, tio! Como você está? (Hey, uncle! How are you?)
Meaning
In both Portuguese and Spanish, ‘tio’ is a term used to refer to the brother of one’s parent or the husband of one’s aunt. It can also be used informally among friends, similar to saying ‘dude’ or ‘bro.’
Synonyms
  • tio avô (great uncle)
  • tio do coração (like an uncle)
  • amigo (friend — used informally)