tamāloa
The Samoan word for grandpa is tamāloa.
tamāloa is a noun used to refer to a grandfather.
Meaning: grandfather (informal) (noun)
Did you know?
- Samoan kinship terms are often more complex than English, as the specific term used can change based on whether the grandfather is from the mother's or father's side of the family.
- In Samoan, terms for elders can shift depending on whether the speaker is using the 'common' tongue or the 'chiefly' language used in formal oratory.
- In many Samoan households, the concept of 'grandpa' extends beyond blood relatives to include respected elderly men in the community who hold a similar status.
Example conversation
Sina is asking Sione about their grandfather's whereabouts.
- SinaSione, o fea tamāloa?Sione, where is grandpa?
- SioneO lo'o iai i le fale.He is in the house.
- SinaE mafai ona ou feletalaia o ia?Can I go visit him?
- SioneIoe, ua sauni tamāloa.Yes, grandpa is ready.
