dziadek
/ˈd͡ʑa.dɛk/
The English word "grandpa" is translated into Polish as dziadek.
dziadek is a noun used to refer to a grandfather in an informal context.
Meaning: grandfather (informal) (noun)
Which one should you use?
While dziadek is the standard form, you may encounter several other versions. Dziadzia is an informal version frequently used by grandchildren. To add an extra touch of affection when addressing a grandpa, you can use the terms dziadunio or dziadeczku.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form changes depending on the grammatical case. Use dziadkowi in the dative case, for example, when you are giving something to him. When calling out to your grandpa, the vocative form is typically used. Instead of the nominative dziadek, you would often use dziadziu or dziadziuś.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /ˈdʑa.dɛk/. It has 2 syllables and the stress is on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- In traditional Polish folklore, the dziady were the spirits of ancestors who were summoned during a ritual known as the 'Grandfathers' Night'.
- In older or more rural Polish, the word dziad can refer to a beggar or a poor man, not just a grandfather.
- The word dziadek is actually a diminutive, formed by adding the suffix -ek to the older root dziad.
Examples in context
- Mój dziadek jest chory.My grandpa is sick.This sentence is useful for describing a grandpa's health using dziadek.Tatoeba #12196563 by polski_ren, translation #5343670 by lolawesome65
- Mój dziadek je pomarańczę.My grandpa is eating an orange.This sentence is useful for describing an action involving dziadek.Tatoeba #8547677 by nusia2302, translation #12807429 by rul
- Babcia i dziadek usiedli przed domem.Grandma and Grandpa sat in front of the house.This sentence is useful for mentioning both grandma and dziadek using the nominative form.Tatoeba #13561532 by JimiYoru, translation #12249004 by Miktsoanit
- Jak się czujesz dziadeczku?How are you feeling, grandpa?
- Czy dziadzia chce herbatę?Does grandpa want some tea?
- 3 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Agnieszka and Tomasz are talking about their families.
- AgnieszkaCzy twój dziadek jest zdrowy?Is your grandpa healthy?
- TomaszTak, mój dziadek czuje się świetnie.Yes, my grandpa feels great.
- AgnieszkaTo wspaniale.That is wonderful.
- TomaszDziękuję, Agnieszka.Thank you, Agnieszka.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry dziadek, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries dziadek, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
