Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈe͡ɪt ˈant] (IPA) 
The spelling of "great aunt" can be a bit tricky due to the silent "h" sound in "aunt." In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /ɡreɪt ɑːnt/. The "g" at the beginning is pronounced as a hard "g" sound, followed by a long "a" sound. The "t" in "great" is pronounced and not silent. The "a" in "aunt" is pronounced as a short "a" sound, similar to the word "ant." The silent "h" in "aunt" is not pronounced in any way.
A great aunt is a relative typically referred to as the sister of either one's grandmother or grandfather. As a second-degree aunt, a great aunt holds a significant place in the extended family tree. This distinguished status is earned through blood relation, granting them a special familial role and recognition. The term "great aunt" encompasses both paternal and maternal family lines, as her sibling could be related to either side of one's family.
A great aunt often belongs to a generation older than one's parents, positioning them as an elder figure within the family dynamics. They share a sibling connection with one's grandparent(s), making them a link to the past and a source of ancestral knowledge. Great aunts typically possess wisdom and life experiences that can enrich familial relationships.
Great aunts hold a dear place in family histories and may play various roles in the lives of their nieces and nephews. They serve as confidants, advisors, and role models, influencing one's development and growth. Great aunts often provide support, guidance, and love, as they have a deep connection with their extended family. The relationship between a great aunt and her niece or nephew can vary from person to person, ranging from casual to profound and enduring. Regardless of the specifics, great aunts play an essential role in maintaining family ties, passing down traditions, and celebrating shared memories.
The word "great aunt" is composed of two parts: "great" and "aunt".
The term "great" is derived from the Old English word "grēat" meaning "big" or "large". Over time, it started being used to denote importance or distinction, hence its usage as a prefix for familial relationships such as "great aunt".
The word "aunt" originated from the French word "ante", which evolved from the Latin word "amita" meaning "paternal aunt". The Proto-Indo-European root "am-", meaning "mother", can be traced back to the origins of the word as well.
Combining these two words, "great" and "aunt", essentially means an older sister of one's parent, but one generation removed.
