děda
[ˈɟɛda]masculine
The Czech word for grandfather is děda or děd.
Meaning: grandfather (from either side) (noun)
Ways to say it
| Czech | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| děda | [ˈɟɛda] (narrow) | masculine |
| děd | [ˈɟɛt] (narrow) | masculine |
Both terms are used to refer to a grandfather from either the maternal or paternal side.
Which one should you use?
The form děda is a colloquial term often translated as 'grandad' or 'old man'. While it is a common way to refer to a grandfather, it can sometimes carry a more casual or less respectful tone compared to other forms. In contrast, the diminutive form dědeček is the most common and affectionate way to say 'grandpa' in Czech.
How does it change in a sentence?
When using these terms in the dative case to say 'to grandfather', you change děda or děd to dědovi or dědu. Additionally, if you wish to use the possessive form of the diminutive 'grandpa' (grandfather's), use dědečkův.
Did you know?
- In some rural Czech dialects, děda can be used to describe a stubborn or traditional man, regardless of his age.
- The word děd appears in some Slavic folklore settings to represent a personification of the 'spirit of the ancestors'.
- While dědeček is the standard affectionate term, calling a stranger děda in a shop might actually be perceived as calling them an 'old man' rather than a 'grandpa'.
Examples in context
- Můj děda má psa.My grandfather has a dog.This sentence shows how to use děda to describe a grandfather's pet.Tatoeba #11999651 by aldar, translation #6818593 by Eccles17
- Můj děda je tesař.My grandfather is a carpenter.This sentence shows how to use děda to state a grandfather's profession.Tatoeba #10611034 by aldar, translation #250235 by CK
- Kde je tvůj dědeček?Where's your grandfather?This sentence shows the use of the form děd in a question.Tatoeba #8436720 by Ergulis, translation #7464054 by CK
- Dobrý den, dědečku, jak se dnes máte?Good day, grandfather, how are you today?
- Ahoj, dedo, jak se máš dneska?Hi, grandpa, how are you today?
- 37 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Kateřina and Jan are talking about a family photo.
- KateřinaKdo je ten dobrý děda na fotce?Who is that kind grandfather in the photo?
- JanTo je můj děda, Jan.That is my grandfather, Jan.
- KateřinaTvůj děda vypadá velmi šťastně.Your grandfather looks very happy.
- JanAno, můj děda je veselý člověk.Yes, my grandfather is a cheerful person.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “grandfather” translations and entries děda, děd, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
