mami
The English phrase "mom" is translated into Albanian as mami.
The term is an affectionate and informal way to address one's mother. It is used by both children and adults.
Which one should you use?
While mami is an affectionate term similar to "mom", the word nënë is the standard and more formal word for "mother". Additionally, nana is another informal term used to mean "mom".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
mami and nana are both informal terms. In contrast, nënë is the formal version used to mean "mother".
Did you know?
- In some northern Albanian regions, the degree of respect or the specific way you address your mother in public is governed by traditional codes of honor.
- In Albanian, the word nënë can be used to describe a woman who is a protective or nurturing figure in a community, even if she is not the biological mother.
- If you hear the word nana in a Balkan folk song, it often carries a heavy, melancholic weight used to express deep longing or grief rather than just simple affection.
Examples in context
- Nana, a do të shkosh me ne në piknik të dielën?Mom, will you come with us on a picnic this Sunday?
- Mami, ku je?Mom, where are you?
- Të dua shumë, mami!I love you so much, mom!
Example conversation
Alban is asking his mother for help in the kitchen.
- AlbanMami, a mund të më ndihmosh?Mom, can you help me?
- ArjanaPo, Alban, çfarë ndodh?Yes, Alban, what is happening?
- AlbanNuk e gjej kuzhonin.I can't find the spoon.
- ArjanaËshtë këtu në tavolinë.It is here on the table.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry mami, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
