How to Say “Grandma” in Chamorro

By Marie Addison • Updated October 1, 2026

nina

nina is the Chamorro word for grandma.

The word nina is used to refer to a grandmother in an informal way.

Meaning: grandmother (informal) (noun)

Did you know?

In Chamorro culture, a person might use nina as a respectful title for any older woman in the community, even if they are not related.
The word nina is frequently paired with nono to refer to grandparents collectively as nina ha nono.
Because Chamorro culture is heavily influenced by Spanish, you may find that older generations use 'Abuela' alongside or instead of nina.

Example conversation

Elena and Manuel are talking about visiting family.

Elena

Si nina tå kåno' yan kåno'.
Grandma is calling again and again.
Manuel

Tåyåu na nina?
What does grandma want?
Elena

Kåno' nina para i’u kåno'.
Grandma is calling for us to call her.
Manuel

Y’u kåno' nina ahmet.
I will call grandma now.

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About The Author

Marie Addison

Hola, I'm Marie. My passion for the Chamorro language led me to write comprehensive guides on different phrases and expressions. You may say I'm a language enthusiast with an affinity for teaching. When I'm not exploring new words and tutorials, I Iove to paint and play the ukulele. Avid traveler, foodie, and believer of cultural preservation, helping you learn how to say "Always" or "Angel" in Chamorro brings joy to my heart. My love for Chamorro led me to its neighbor Marshallese, and I now write guides on how to say things in Marshallese as well. Join me on this journey to learn and explore Chamorro.

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