tatay
/ˈtataj/
The Tagalog way to say daddy is tatay. Wiktionary also lists itay and papa.
Meaning: (informal, usually childish) father (noun)
Ways to say it
| Tagalog | IPA |
|---|---|
| tatay | /ˈtataj/ (Standard Tagalog) /taˈtaj/ (Standard Tagalog) |
| itay | /ʔiˈtaj/ (Standard Tagalog) |
| papa | /paˈpa/ /papa/ |
Due to English influence, some speakers also use the English term Daddy informally.
Which one should you use?
tatay is the most common and standard neutral term for dad or father. papa is a common and affectionate way to address a father, often used by children or within close-knit families. itay is a more colloquial or rural-sounding variation of tatay.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a formal and respectful way to address a father, use Ama. For informal situations, you can use tatay, papa or itay. For an affectionate, informal term derived from English slang, some may use Paps.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈtataj/
Did you know?
- The Spanish root of papa originally comes from the Latin word for 'food', which was used when speaking to children.
- The term itay is often paired with the word inay to create a rhythmic, traditional way of referring to father and mother.
Examples in context
- Papa, mahal kita!Daddy, I love you!This sentence shows how to use papa to express affection.Tatoeba #10170247 by theSardonyx, translation #2075226 by Vened
- Si Papa ang aking guro.Papa is my teacher.
- Itay, salamat sa lahat ng iyong mga sakripisyo.Dad, thank you for all your sacrifices.
- Tatay, tara na sa park!Dad, let's go to the park!
- Daddy, mahal na mahal kita.Daddy, I love you so much.
- Paps, pwede bang hiramin ang kotse mo?Dad, can I borrow your car?
- Nasaan si Tatay?Where is Daddy?
- Ang bait ng Tatay ko.My daddy is so kind.
Example conversation
A young girl is looking for her father at home.
- MariaTatay, nasaan ka?Daddy, where are you?
- JoseNandito lang ako sa kusina, Maria.I am just here in the kitchen, Maria.
- MariaGusto ko ng yakap ni Tatay.I want a hug from Daddy.
- JoseHalika rito at yayakapin kita.Come here and I will hug you.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “daddy” translations and entries tatay, itay, papa, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries itay, papa, tatay, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
