mamá
/maˈma/
The English phrase 'mom' is translated into Spanish as mamá.
mamá is the most common and widely used informal term for 'mom' in Spanish.
Which one should you use?
While mamá is the affectionate equivalent of 'mom', madre is the more formal term for 'mother'. The diminutive form mami is often used as an even more affectionate way to say 'mommy' or to address one's mother directly. Similarly, madrecita is a diminutive form of madre used as a playful and tender way to refer to your mother.
Is it said differently in some regions?
mamá is the go-to term in Latin America. The term mami is particularly prevalent in countries like Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Cuba. In some Latin American countries, such as Mexico and Colombia, mamita is a variant that conveys an even more affectionate and endearing tone.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation of mamá is /maˈma/.
Did you know?
- While 'mom' is a word for a parent, in many Spanish-speaking Caribbean cultures, a man might call his girlfriend or wife mami as a term of endearment.
- In some Latin American countries, calling a young girl mamita or mami is a common way for elders to address her affectionately, regardless of her actual motherhood.
- The term mami has been heavily integrated into Reggaeton and Latin urban music, where it often refers to an attractive woman rather than a parent.
Examples in context
- Quiero a mi mamá.I love my mom.This sentence is useful for expressing affection for your mamá.Tatoeba #651402 by Shishir, translation #2011109 by Shishir
- Mi mamá me cocina.My mom cooks for me.This sentence is useful for describing an action your mamá performs for you.Tatoeba #2139151 by hayastan, translation #9364454 by Nylez
- ¿Qué dijo tu mamá?What did your mom say?This sentence is useful for asking about something your mamá said.Tatoeba #6673570 by UsuarioX, translation #3573387 by Hybrid
- Mi madre siempre ha sido mi mayor apoyo.My mother has always been my greatest support.
- Le agradezco a mamá por todo su amor incondicional.I am grateful to mom for all her unconditional love.
- La señora Martínez es una excelente madre.Mrs. Martínez is an excellent mother.
- ¡Mamá, te quiero mucho!Mom, I love you so much!
- Mami, ¿puedes ayudarme con esto?Mom, can you help me with this?
- Madrecita, ¿me podrías hacer una taza de té?Mommy, could you make me a cup of tea?
- 185 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
María and Alejandro are talking on the phone.
- MaríaHola, Alejandro, ¿estás con tu mamá?Hello, Alejandro, are you with your mom?
- AlejandroNo, mamá está en el supermercado.No, mom is at the supermarket.
- MaríaDile a tu mamá que me llame.Tell your mom to call me.
- AlejandroEstá bien, María, yo le aviso.Okay, María, I will let her know.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry mamá, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
