tinā matua
The Samoan word for grandma is tinā matua.
tinā matua is used to refer to a grandmother.
Meaning: grandmother (informal) (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to elder mother.
Did you know?
- Because Samoan culture is communal, the term for grandmother can sometimes be extended to any elder female in the community who holds a similar status.
- Respect for a tinā matua is often signaled through specific physical gestures, such as a slight bow or avoiding direct eye contact during a request.
- The word matua does not just mean 'old' or 'elder', but carries a cultural weight of authority and wisdom within the family hierarchy.
Examples in context
- E fiafia lo'u tinā matua.My grandma is happy.
- O se tinā matua lelei o ia.She is a good grandmother.
Example conversation
Mere and Manu are talking about their family visiting.
- MereE sau tinā matua i le vaiaso lea?Is grandma coming next week?
- ManuIoe, e sau o ia.Yes, she is coming.
- MereOu te fia feiloai ma tinā matua.I want to meet grandma.
- ManuE fia feiloai fo'i o ia ia te oe.She wants to meet you too.
