Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A personification of the United States government: "Uncle Sam" is a common national personification and symbol of the United States federal government, its policies, and its people. The figure is typically depicted as a stern, elderly white man with white hair and a goatee, dressed in clothing that echoes elements of the American flag.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The poster showed Uncle Sam pointing directly at the viewer with the caption "I Want You For U.S. Army." (This is a famous recruitment image.)
  • Many citizens feel that Uncle Sam takes too much of their income in taxes. (Here, "Uncle Sam" refers to the U.S. government's taxation authority.)
  • The new regulations are just another way for Uncle Sam to get involved in private business.

Advanced Usage

• "Uncle Sam wants you": A famous phrase from historical recruitment posters, now used more broadly to imply that the government has a demand or requirement for its citizens.

  • With the new jury duty notices mailed out, it seems Uncle Sam wants you again.

• Used to represent the authority, bureaucracy, or sometimes the perceived intrusiveness of the federal government.

  • You can't avoid dealing with Uncle Sam when you file your annual taxes.

Variants and Related Words

• Sam (n, informal): A shortened, informal reference to "Uncle Sam."

  • I just got my refund check from Sam.

• Brother Jonathan: An earlier personification of the United States, largely replaced by Uncle Sam in the 19th century.

Synonyms

• The U.S. government: The federal government of the United States.
• The federal government: The national government based in Washington, D.C.
• Washington: A metonym for the U.S. government and its operations (e.g., ).

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Work for Uncle Sam: To be employed by the U.S. government.

  • After college, she went to work for Uncle Sam at the Department of State.

• Answer to Uncle Sam: To be accountable to or under the authority of the U.S. government.

  • As a government contractor, our company ultimately answers to Uncle Sam.

Noun

1. a personification of the United States government