mamá
standard, Mexico
In Mexican Spanish "mama" is mamá, with the stress on the last syllable and a written accent. Many Mexicans also say mami to be affectionate or amá in quick, casual talk.
Meaning: a child's word for mother (noun)
Ways to say it
| Mexican | Note |
|---|---|
| mamá | standard, Mexico |
| mami | affectionate |
| amá | casual, Mexico |
Adults keep saying mamá all their lives. Calling out ¡Amá! is a common way to get a mother's attention at home.
How do you pronounce it?
Mamá is said "mah-MAH".
What mistakes should you avoid?
Without the accent, mama is a different word, a form of the verb mamar (to suckle), so write mamá.
Did you know?
- Mother's Day is celebrated in Mexico every year on May 10, whatever day of the week it falls on.
Examples in context
- Mi mamá cocina muy rico.My mom cooks very well.
- Amá, ¿me das permiso?Mom, can I go?
Example conversation
Tomás comes home from school and finds his mother in the kitchen.
- TomásMamá, ya llegué.Mom, I am home.
- MamáHola, mi vida. ¿Cómo te fue?Hi, my dear. How did it go?
- TomásBien, tengo hambre.Fine, I am hungry.
