say uncle
used by children to tell someone to admit they have been defeated

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲

say uncle
[American, informal]
to admit that you have been defeated.
I'm determined to show them I can be a star. I'm not going to say uncle.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

say uncle
to surrender, to give in
The little boy was forced to say uncle and agree to do what the older boy wanted.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

say uncle
v. phr., informal To say that you surrender; admit that you have lost; admit a defeat; give up.
Bob fought for five minutes, but he had to say uncle.
The bully twisted Jerry's arm and said, "Cry uncle."
The other team was beating us, but we wouldn't say uncle.
Compare: GIVE IN.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲