nena
affectionate, informal
Affectionate slang for "baby girl" includes nena, mami and bebé. They are used between partners and also for little girls.
Meaning: affectionate term for a girl or woman (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| nena | affectionate, informal |
| mami | affectionate, informal |
| bebé | affectionate |
Nena is a term for a girl and a pet name among couples. Mami is a tender or flirty term in many Latin American countries, while bebé is used by couples and parents.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
These words are informal. Using them with a stranger can sound too familiar or even rude.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Nena is common in Spain, Argentina and the Caribbean. Mami is used widely in the Caribbean and Mexico.
Did you know?
- Nena is the feminine form of nene, and both are everyday words for a young child in many countries.
Examples in context
- Hola, nena, ¿cómo estás?Hi, baby girl, how are you?
- Ven aquí, mami.Come here, baby.
- Te extraño, bebé.I miss you, baby.
Example conversation
A father, Julio, speaks to his small daughter Camila.
- JulioCamila, nena, es hora de dormir.Camila, sweetie, it is time to sleep.
- CamilaUn cuento más, papá.One more story, Dad.
- JulioUno solo, mi bebé.Just one, my baby.
