tita
/ˈtita/
The English phrase "aunty" is translated into Tagalog as tita.
tita is a term used to refer to the sister of one's father or mother, or a woman of a similar age and status. It is often used to address your father's sister or close family friends. When addressing someone directly, it is common to combine the term with a name, such as Tita Maria.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
tita is the common, informal way to address an aunt or an older woman. In more formal or traditional contexts, you may use tiya.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈtita/
Did you know?
- In modern urban slang, the term tita is sometimes used to describe a specific aesthetic or lifestyle involving certain hobbies, like gardening or high tea.
- While tita is a popular modern choice, it is actually a diminutive form of the Spanish word tía, meaning it literally translates to 'little aunt'.
- Using tita for a woman who is not a relative can sometimes be a risky social move, as some women may feel it suggests they are too old.
Examples in context
- Kumusta ang tita mo?How is your aunty?
- Nandiyan ba si Tita?Is Aunty there?
- Mabait ang tita ko.My aunty is kind.
Example conversation
Jose and Angela are talking at a family gathering.
- JoseNakita mo na ba si Tita?Have you seen Aunty yet?
- AngelaHindi ko pa siya nakikita, Jose.I haven't seen her yet, Jose.
- JoseNasa kusina yata ang tita mo.Your aunty is probably in the kitchen.
- AngelaSige, pupuntahan ko siya.Okay, I will go to her.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry tita, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries tita, CC BY-SA 4.0.
