How to Say “Grandpa” in Sicilian

By Amber Edith • Updated October 1, 2026

nannu

/nan.nu/

nannu is the Sicilian word for grandpa.

nannu is an informal noun used to refer to one's grandfather.

Meaning: grandfather (informal) (noun)

Is it said differently in some regions?

nannu is predominantly used in the Eastern region.

How do you pronounce it?

The word has two syllables: /nan.nu/.

Did you know?

Despite its Sicilian form, nannu shares a distant genetic link with the Sanskrit word nanā, which means 'mother' or 'mama'.

Examples in context

Comu sta nannu?
How is your grandpa?
M'aiutò u nannu.
Grandpa helped me.
U nannu è un omu bonu.
Grandpa is a good man.

Example conversation

Maria is talking to Antonio about their family.

Maria

Undu è u nannu?
Where is grandpa?
Antonio

Lu nannu è 'n giardu.
Grandpa is in the garden.
Maria

Chi sta facennu?
What is he doing?
Antonio

Sta curannu i pumi.
He is taking care of the tomatoes.

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.

⭐Share⭐ to appreciate human effort 🙏

About The Author

Amber Edith

Ciao! I'm Amber, a passionate language enthusiast with a penchant for all things Italian. When I'm not delighting in uncovering the nuances of the Italian language, you might find me indulging in a formaggio pizza or savoring a scoop of gelato. I'm on a lifelong quest to share the loveliness of Italian phrases, from the simplest greetings to more complex terms, bringing you closer to the 'Bella Lingua'. As a wordsmith, I find joy in translating the world around me into Italian, be it 'brooch' or 'hawksbill turtle'. Sicilian is spoken not far from Italian, and it has become another language close to my heart, so you will now find my guides to Sicilian here too. So come, let's say 'Buongiorno' to the Italian language together.

Amber EdithHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

0 Comments

Newest

Oldest Most Voted