mamá grande
/mama ɡɾande/from spelling rules
The English phrase "big momma" is translated into Spanish as mamá grande.
This phrase is used to describe a mother who is large in physical size.
How do you pronounce it?
/mama ɡɾande/
Did you know?
- To avoid the physical connotation of 'big', one might use gran mamá instead, which shifts the focus from physical size to being a 'great' or 'wonderful' mother.
- While mamá grande refers to size, Spanish has the word madraza to describe a mother who is 'great' in her capability and strength.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, calling a woman mamá or mamita is a common term of endearment even if she is not your biological mother.
Example conversation
Javier and Lucía are looking at an old family photo.
- Javier¿Quién es la mujer de la foto?Who is the woman in the photo?
- LucíaElla es mi mamá grande.She is my big momma.
- JavierSe ve muy amable.She looks very kind.
- LucíaSí, ella es muy dulce.Yes, she is very sweet.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
