па́па
pápamasculine
The English phrase "daddy" is translated into Russian as па́па (pápa). Wiktionary also lists ба́тюшка (bátjuška) and па́почка (pápočka).
Meaning: (informal, usually childish) father (noun)
Ways to say it
| Russian | Romanization (Wiktionary) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| па́па | pápa | masculine |
| ба́тюшка | bátjuška | masculine |
| па́почка | pápočka | masculine |
| тя́тя | tjátja | masculine, obsolete |
The word па́па is the standard, most common way to say "dad" or "father" in a family context, used by both children and adults. The word па́почка is an endearing informal diminutive form of па́па used to express affection.
Which one should you use?
The diminutive form па́почка is more affectionate and closer to the English 'daddy' than the standard па́па. While ба́тюшка can mean 'father', in modern usage it is primarily an archaic or religious term used for priests or as a respectful, old-fashioned address. The form тя́тя is obsolete.
How do you pronounce it?
pápa
Did you know?
- The diminutive па́почка is so sweet and soft that using it as an adult in a public setting might be seen as being overly sentimental or even slightly mocking.
- The word ба́тюшка was historically used as a respectful way to address any older man or a social superior, regardless of whether they were a priest or a parent.
- In Russian culture, the diminutive па́почка is not just for children. Adults often use it when speaking to their fathers to express deep tenderness or when asking for a favor.
Examples in context
- Папа, давай сыграем в футбол?Daddy, let's play soccer?
- Папочка, ты лучший!Daddy, you're the best!
- Мой па́па очень добрый.Moy papa ochen' dobryy.My daddy is very kind.
- Где мой па́па?Gde moy papa?Where is my daddy?
- Па́па купил мне игрушку.Papa kupil mne igrushku.Daddy bought me a toy.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “daddy” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
