papi
informal
For a father the affectionate word is papi or papito. Papá is the neutral word for dad.
Meaning: dad or flirtatious "daddy" (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| papi | informal |
| papá | neutral |
| papito | affectionate |
Children say papi to their dad. Among adults papi is also a flirtatious term for an attractive man, so context matters.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some places people also say papá in front of a name or viejo informally for dad.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Using papi with someone you do not know well can sound too familiar.
Did you know?
- In Spanish papi and mami are also used as affectionate words between adults in Caribbean Spanish.
Examples in context
- Papi, ¿me ayudas con la tarea?Daddy, can you help me with my homework?
- Mi papito me enseñó a manejar.My daddy taught me to drive.
- Papá llega a las seis.Dad arrives at six.
Example conversation
A little girl, Isa, talks with her father at home.
- IsaPapi, ¿jugamos?Daddy, shall we play?
- PapáClaro, mi vida.Of course, my dear.
- IsaYo traigo las cartas.I will bring the cards.
