мама
máma[ˈmamə]
The English word "mom" is translated into Russian as мама (máma).
мама is an informal word used to refer to a female parent.
Which one should you use?
While мама is the standard informal way to say "mom", the more formal term for a mother is мать.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form changes depending on its role in a sentence. Use мамы to indicate possession or to say "of mom". Use маму when "mom" is the direct object of a verb, such as "I love mom". Use маме when giving something to mom or saying something to her.
How do you pronounce it?
мама (máma)
Did you know?
- In Russian culture, the phrase Мама мыла раму meaning 'Mom washed the window frame' is the quintessential first sentence children learn to read.
- The term матушка, an old-fashioned and respectful way to say 'mother', was historically used to address not just biological mothers but also highly respected women or even the country itself.
- The word мама is a distant linguistic cousin to the English word 'mammal', as both stem from the same ancient root referring to the breast or nursing.
Examples in context
- Ты не моя мама.You're not my mom.The sentence is useful for practicing the use of мама in a negative statement.Tatoeba #2981661 by odexed, translation #2843815 by Hybrid
- Мама, а где кот?Mom, where's the cat?The sentence is useful for practicing how to address мама directly.Tatoeba #2594077 by paul_lingvo, translation #1694966 by CM
- Где мама и папа?Where are mom and dad?The sentence is useful for practicing the use of мама when listing people.Tatoeba #13821940 by Ooneykcall, translation #13821931 by maaster
- Поздравляю, мама, ты самая лучшая!Congratulations, mom, you are the best!
- Я всегда благодарен своей матери за ее любовь и поддержку.I am always grateful to my mother for her love and support.
- Спасибо, мамочка, что всегда была со мной.Thank you, mom, for always being with me.
- Мама, я тебя очень люблю.Mom, I love you very much.
- 359 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Anastasia is talking to Dmitry about his family.
- Анастасия AnastasiaТвоя мама сейчас дома?Tvoyá mama seychás doma?Is your mom at home right now?
- Дмитрий DmitryНет, она на работе.Net, oná na rabóte.No, she is at work.
- Анастасия AnastasiaКогда мама вернётся?Kogdá mama vernyotsya?When will mom be back?
- Дмитрий DmitryОна будет вечером.Oná búdet vécherom.She will be here in the evening.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry мама, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
