‘娘舅’ (niáng jiù) is a compound noun meaning 'maternal uncle'—specifically, the brother of one’s mother. The first character 娘 (niáng) means 'mother' and historically carries connotations of closeness and familiarity; the second character 舅 (jiù) means 'maternal uncle' on its own. Together, they form a traditional, slightly formal or literary term that emphasizes the maternal lineage. Unlike the more colloquial 舅舅 (jiù jiu), 娘舅 is often used in written Chinese, legal or familial documents, or when distinguishing relatives by maternal vs. paternal lines.

This term reflects China’s kinship terminology system, where relationships are precisely labeled based on generation, gender, and lineage (maternal vs. paternal). It appears frequently in contexts discussing inheritance, family obligations, or regional customs—for example, in some southern Chinese traditions, the maternal uncle holds special ceremonial roles during weddings or funerals. While still understood nationwide, it sounds more reserved or respectful than everyday speech.