UNCLE TOM Meaning and
Definition
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Uncle Tom is a derogatory term originally derived from the 1852 novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin" by Harriet Beecher Stowe. The term is commonly used to describe a black person who is perceived as being subservient, betraying their own race's interests, and excessively deferential to white authority figures. It portrays an individual who is willing to sacrifice their own dignity and principles for the benefit or acceptance of the dominant group.
In Stowe's novel, Uncle Tom is a slave who is consistently kind, forgiving, and obedient to his masters, even under the most oppressive conditions. However, his character has been interpreted and distorted over time, resulting in the popularization of "Uncle Tom" as a racial stereotype. The term has evolved to connote a negative image of a black person who is seen as excessively compliant, passive, conforming, and lacking in resistance against racial injustice.
The term "Uncle Tom" is often used pejoratively, depicting a person who adheres to white culture, succumbs to racial prejudices, and fails to stand up against systemic racism. However, its usage can be complicated as it perpetuates negative racial stereotypes and undermines the struggles faced by black individuals striving for equality and justice. It is important to be aware that the term carries a strong historical and sociopolitical context and should be used with great sensitivity and caution to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Common Misspellings for UNCLE TOM
- yncle tom
- hncle tom
- jncle tom
- incle tom
- 8ncle tom
- 7ncle tom
- ubcle tom
- umcle tom
- ujcle tom
- uhcle tom
- unxle tom
- unvle tom
- unfle tom
- undle tom
- uncke tom
- uncpe tom
- uncoe tom
- unclw tom
- uncls tom
Etymology of UNCLE TOM
The term "Uncle Tom" originated from the character Uncle Tom in Harriet Beecher Stowe's 1852 novel, "Uncle Tom's Cabin". The novel portrayed the life of enslaved African Americans in the United States and their experiences under slavery.
Uncle Tom, the character, is depicted as a religious and faithful enslaved African American who endures brutal treatment from his owners. While Uncle Tom's character is often seen as noble and virtuous, some critics argue that he represents a submissive, subservient, or even a "sellout" figure.
Over time, the term "Uncle Tom" has evolved and been used as a derogatory term referring to a Black person who is perceived as being excessively subservient to white people or betraying the interests of their own racial or ethnic group. It has been used to criticize individuals deemed to be excessively deferential to perceived oppressors.
Idioms with the word UNCLE TOM
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an Uncle Tom
The idiom "an Uncle Tom" refers to a person, typically a Black person, who is perceived to be subservient to or overly deferential toward White people or the dominant culture, often at the expense of their own racial or ethnic community. The term derives from the fictional character Uncle Tom in Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin," who is depicted as obedient and loyal to his White slaveowners. It is commonly used to criticize individuals who are perceived to betray their own culture or community in favor of conforming to or ingratiating themselves with those in power.
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uncle Tom Cobley and all
The idiom "uncle Tom Cobley and all" refers to a list of numerous people or things, often used humorously or to emphasize the inclusiveness of a group. It originates from a Devonshire folk song called "Widdecombe Fair" which mentions Uncle Tom Cobley and various other individuals, conveying a sense of abundance or multitude. So, the phrase is used to represent an extensive collection or a wide range of things or people.
Similar spelling words for UNCLE TOM
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