[see -IE, -Y3.] A familiar, endearing form of aunt.
1792. Burns, Young Lassie. My auld Auntie Katie upon me taks pity.
1850. Mrs. Stowe, Uncle Tom’s C., xxvi. Ask Aunty to come and cut it for me.
1863. Little People (Mozley), iv. 37. A little voice called after her, ‘Auntie! you ’ve not given me a real good kiss!’
b. In U.S.: ‘A familiar term, often used in accosting an elderly woman.’ Bartlett, Dict. Amer., 1860.
1883. Harper’s Mag., Oct., 728/2. The negro no longer submits with grace to be called ‘uncle’ and ‘auntie’ as of yore.
