inaanak
/ʔiˌnaʔaˈnak/
The Tagalog word for godchild is inaanak.
The term inaanak refers to a child whose baptism is sponsored by a godparent. In Filipino culture, the relationship of being an inaanak extends beyond baptism to include a social bond where the godparent is expected to provide guidance or support.
Meaning: a child whose baptism is sponsored by a godparent (noun)
Which one should you use?
While inaanak refers to the godchild, the godparents are referred to as ninong (godfather) or ninang (godmother).
How does it change in a sentence?
The word inaanak can refer to both a single godchild and multiple godchildren depending on the context, though mga inaanak is the explicit plural form.
How do you pronounce it?
/ʔiˌnaʔaˈnak/
Did you know?
- The term inaanak can sometimes be used figuratively in political or professional contexts to describe a protégé who is being mentored or protected by a more powerful figure.
- During Christmas, it is a widespread cultural expectation for ninong and ninang to give monetary gifts, known as 'aguinaldo', to their inaanak.
- In the Philippines, the bond between a godparent and an inaanak often functions as a form of 'compadrazgo', creating a lifelong strategic social alliance between the parents and the sponsors.
Examples in context
- Kumusta na ang aking inaanak?How is my godchild doing?
- Sinamahan ko ang aking inaanak sa park.I accompanied my godchild to the park.
- Ano ang handa mo para sa iyong inaanak?What gift do you have for your godchild?
- Binili ko ang regalo para sa inaanak ko.I bought a gift for my godchild.
- Ang inaanak ko ay matalino.My godchild is smart.
- Maraming inaanak si Maria.Maria has many godchildren.
Example conversation
Juan and Angela are talking about a recent baptismal party.
- JuanSiya ba ang inaanak mo?Is he your godchild?
- AngelaOo, siya ang inaanak ko.Yes, he is my godchild.
- JuanAng cute naman ng inaanak mo.Your godchild is so cute.
- AngelaSalamat, Juan.Thanks, Juan.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “godchild” translations and entries inaanak, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
