papa
/pa.pa/masculine
papa is the French word for daddy.
papa is an informal term used to refer to a father. While it is the standard way for children to address or talk about their father, adults may also use it in an affectionate or informal way.
Meaning: (informal, usually childish) father (noun)
Which one should you use?
papa is the equivalent of 'daddy', whereas père is the standard, more formal word for 'father'.
How does it change in a sentence?
papa is a masculine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
/pa.pa/
Did you know?
- In some French dialects, particularly in parts of Africa, the word papa can be used as a respectful title for an older man or a community leader, even if there is no biological relation.
- In some traditional French families, the phrase mon petit papa is used as a term of endearment, effectively calling the father 'my little daddy'.
- Unlike in English where 'daddy' can sometimes have a suggestive or slang connotation in adult contexts, papa remains almost exclusively associated with family and childhood.
Examples in context
- Il est où papa ?Where's my daddy?This sentence shows how to ask for the location of papa.Tatoeba #12150046 by zogwarg, translation #2254634 by CK
- Papa, je t'aime !Daddy, I love you!This sentence demonstrates using papa to express affection.Tatoeba #5230593 by michelnialon, translation #2075226 by Vened
- Papa est de retour.Daddy is back.This sentence shows the use of papa to indicate someone has returned.Tatoeba #12256253 by Orange, translation #12256252 by Orange
- 19 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
A little girl is looking for her father in the house.
- ChloéPapa, tu es où ?Daddy, where are you?
- LucasJe suis dans la cuisine, Chloé.I am in the kitchen, Chloé.
- ChloéJ'arrive, papa !I'm coming, daddy!
- LucasDépêche-toi, petite.Hurry up, little one.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “daddy” translations and entries papa, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
