said uncle
/sɛd ˈʌŋkəl/
VERB
1. To admit defeat or surrender
To acknowledge that one has been defeated, give up resistance, or admit that another person has gained the upper hand, especially under pressure or after prolonged struggle.
1.1. Surrendering after resistance or pressure
Used when someone finally gives up fighting, resisting, or opposing another person after being pressured, challenged, or overcome.
Synonyms
- surrendered
- capitulated
- gave in
- yielded
- submitted
- succumbed
- knuckled under
- conceded
- relented
- cried uncle
Antonyms
Examples
- After a long wrestling match, he finally said uncle in defeat.
- The playful siblings engaged in a tickle war until one of them reluctantly said uncle.
- During the negotiation, the weaker party eventually said uncle and agreed to the terms.
- The friendly sparring match reached its limit when one participant finally said uncle.
- Despite their best efforts, the opposing team eventually said uncle and conceded the game.
Related Words
- admitted defeat
- backed down
- gave up
- threw in the towel
- threw in the sponge
- conceded defeat
- acquiesced
- yielded
1.2. Giving in during a dispute or negotiation
Describes a person or party abandoning a disagreement, accepting another side's demands, or yielding a position after continued argument, pressure, or unsuccessful negotiation.
Synonyms
- acquiesced
- conceded
- capitulated
- deferred
- submitted
- relented
- yielded
- gave in
Antonyms
Examples
- The weaker party finally said uncle and agreed to the terms.
- After hours of negotiations, the company said uncle and accepted the proposed settlement.
- The protesters refused to say uncle despite mounting pressure from the authorities.
Related Words
- compromised
- backed down
- accepted
- assented
- consented
- agreed
- negotiated
- withstood