nannu
/nan.nu/masculine
In Sicilian, the English phrase 'grandfather' is translated as nannu. If unsure, use nannu. Wiktionary also lists tata granni and papa granni.
Meaning: grandfather (from either side) (noun)
Ways to say it
| Sicilian | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| nannu | /nan.nu/ | masculine |
| tata granni | masculine | |
| papa granni | masculine |
The term refers to a grandfather from either the paternal or maternal side.
Which one should you use?
While nannu is the standard term, tata granni and papa granni are also used to denote a grandfather.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
nannu is the most common, affectionate and informal way to refer to a grandfather.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the western part of Sicily, specifically around Palermo and Trapani, the form nannusu is used.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of nannu is nanni.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation of nannu is /nan.nu/.
Did you know?
- While nannu means 'grandfather', it shares an ancient root with the Sanskrit word nanā which means 'mother'.
- The word nannu is believed to be onomatopoeic, meaning it may have originated from the soothing sounds or babbling noises made by infants.
Examples in context
- Mio nannu è un omu bonu.My grandfather is a good man.
- Chistu nannu è assai vecchiu.This grandfather is very old.
Example conversation
Maria is showing Giuseppe a family photo.
- MariaChistu è u mieu nannu.This is my grandfather.
- GiuseppeÈ assai simpaticu!He looks very nice!
- MariaSì, u nannu è bravu.Yes, grandfather is a good man.
- GiuseppeHai sincu fortuna.You are lucky.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “grandfather” translations and entries nannu, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries granni, nannu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
