老娘舅

老娘舅

Literally means:

old uncle

Actually means:

family arbitrator

娘舅, uncle (brother of one's mother). In the past, the brother of one's mother enjoyed a high reputation and an unbiased position in a family. He was sent for whenever there was any fraternal dispute, quarrel between husband and wife, or clash over wealth division. Later on, the phrase becomes a nickname for intercessor or arbitrator.

娘舅，即舅舅（妈妈的哥哥或弟弟）。从前，母亲的哥哥具有很高的威信，又能保持中立地位，兄弟不和，夫妻吵架，财产分割的纠纷等都请他调解裁决。后来“老娘舅”便成为调解人或仲裁人的代名词。