How to Say “Grandfather” in Polish

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dziadek
/ˈd͡ʑa.dɛk/masculine, person
The Polish word for grandfather is dziadek.
dziadek is a masculine noun used to refer to a grandfather from either the maternal or paternal side. In some informal contexts, it can also be used as a somewhat derogatory term for an old man, similar to calling someone an 'old man' or 'geezer' in English.
Meaning: grandfather (from either side) (noun)

Which one should you use?

While dziadek is the standard term, you may encounter the diminutive form dziadziuś, which is used as an affectionate term like 'grandpa' or 'grampy'.

Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?

dziadek is the most commonly used term for grandfather in informal situations. For more affection, you can use the diminutive dziadziuś.

How does it change in a sentence?

The form of the word changes depending on its role in a sentence. Use dziadka for the genitive case, such as when expressing possession or after certain prepositions. Use dziadkowi for the dative case, such as when giving something to a grandfather. The form dziadków is the genitive plural, used when referring to multiple grandfathers.

How do you pronounce it?

The word has two syllables, and the stress is on the first syllable. The IPA pronunciation is /ˈdʑa.dɛk/.

Did you know?

  • In traditional Polish folklore, dziady refers to a ritual of summoning the spirits of ancestors to seek their guidance and forgiveness.
  • The root word dziad can describe a homeless beggar or a wandering mendicant in certain historical and social contexts.
  • The Polish suffix -ek used in dziadek is a diminutive that can actually make a word sound more standard or familiar rather than just 'small'.

Examples in context

  • Mój dziadek był młynarzem.
    My grandfather was a miller.
    This sentence uses dziadek to describe a grandfather's former profession.
    Tatoeba #1574076 by Bilberry, translation #1574077 by Bilberry
  • Mój dziadek był bohaterem.
    My grandfather was a hero.
    This sentence uses dziadek to describe a grandfather's character.
    Tatoeba #3881847 by Baakamono, translation #3831267 by CK
  • Gdzie mieszka jej dziadek?
    Where does her grandfather live?
    This sentence uses dziadek to ask about a grandfather's residence.
    Tatoeba #10542286 by tokzyk, translation #8976983 by sundown
  • 37 more sentences on Tatoeba

Example conversation

Katarzyna and Paweł are looking at an old family photo.

  1. Katarzyna

    Kto to jest, twój dziadek?
    Who is this, your grandfather?
  2. Paweł

    Tak, to jest mój dziadek.
    Yes, this is my grandfather.
  3. Katarzyna

    Twój dziadek wygląda na bardzo miłego.
    Your grandfather looks very kind.
  4. Paweł

    Rzeczywiście, on jest wspaniały.
    Indeed, he is wonderful.

Sources

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Brody Guy
Brody GuyHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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