'auntie' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'amita', where 'amita' meant 'father's sister'.

'auntie' changed from Old French/Middle English forms (Old French 'ante' / Middle English 'aunte') and later acquired the diminutive/affectionate suffix '-ie' to become modern English 'auntie'.

Initially, it meant 'father's sister' (a specific familial relation), but over time it broadened to mean any parent's sister and, informally, any older or respected woman.