Non-Relational Aunties

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A dancer in the Broadway production of The Lion King says he and his colleagues are curious about the use of the term “Auntie” (pronounced AHN-tee) to refer to an older woman, regardless of whether she’s a blood relative. Auntie is often used among African-American speakers in the American South as a sign of respect for an older woman for whom one has affection. This is part of a complete episode.

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