nannu
/ˈnan.nu/
nannu is the Maltese word for grandpa.
The term nannu is a common and affectionate way to say 'grandpa' in Maltese.
Meaning: grandfather (informal) (noun)
Which one should you use?
The word nannu is the informal term for grandfather, similar to 'grandpa' in English.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the plural form, grandpas, use nannijiet.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable: /ˈnan.nu/.
Did you know?
- The Maltese word nannu was borrowed from the Sicilian word nannu.
- The term nannu is often used as a general term of endearment for any elderly man, even if there is no biological relation.
- While most Maltese nouns change their endings for plurals based on Arabic patterns, the plural nannijiet uses a suffix common to Romance-derived words.
Examples in context
- Nannu, kemm inħossni kontenta li rajtek!Grandpa, how happy I am to see you!
- L-nannu tiegħi huwa sabiħ.My grandpa is lovely.
- Fejn hu l-nannu?Where is grandpa?
Example conversation
Maria and Paul are talking about their family visit.
- MariaHawn hu nannu!Here is grandpa!
- PaulCiao nannu, kif inti?Hi grandpa, how are you?
- MariaHuwa jidher kuntent.He looks happy.
- PaulIva, nannu huwa r-reba!Yes, grandpa is the best!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry nannu, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nannu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
