nanna
/ˈnan.na/
The Maltese word for grandma is nanna.
nanna is used to refer to a grandmother.
Meaning: grandmother (informal) (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable: /ˈnan.na/.
When do people say it?
nanna is a common term for a grandmother in Maltese society.
Did you know?
- While nanna means grandma, a Maltese person might call an elderly woman nanna even if they are not related to her, as a sign of respect.
- The Maltese word nanna is a loanword from Sicilian, reflecting the deep historical and linguistic layers of the islands' relationship with Italy.
- The term nanna is so central to Maltese identity that it is frequently used in names of local businesses, such as cafes or bakeries, to evoke a sense of tradition and home.
Examples in context
- L-nanna tiegħi hija sabiħa.My grandma is lovely.
Example conversation
Myriam and Paul are talking about their weekend plans.
- MyriamSe nżur lin-nanna ġavra.I am going to visit grandma tomorrow.
- PaulTista' tmur magħha Paul?Can Paul go with her?
- MyriamIva, in-nanna se tkun kuntenta.Yes, grandma will be happy.
- PaulMajjistru, narak wara.Great, I'll see you later.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry nanna, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nanna, CC BY-SA 4.0.
