mamãe
/mɐ̃ˈmɐ̃j̃/
The English phrase "mommy" is translated into Portuguese as mamãe.
mamãe is an affectionate term used to address or refer to a mother. It is often used by children or in highly intimate, emotional contexts.
Which one should you use?
While mamãe is the affectionate "mommy," the term mãe is the standard, neutral word for "mother." Other informal variations include mamã (mommy or mama) and mãezinha (an affectionate way to say mommy).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
mamãe is an informal and affectionate term. In Brazil, it is used primarily in informal, intimate settings.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In northern Brazil, some people may informally use mainha instead of mamãe.
How do you pronounce it?
/mɐ̃ˈmɐ̃j̃/
Did you know?
- The diminutive form mãezinha can be used to express deep tenderness, but it can also be used sarcastically to mock someone acting like a spoiled child.
- In Brazil, the use of mamãe in song lyrics is a common way to evoke 'saudade', a uniquely Portuguese feeling of melancholic longing for one's childhood or home.
- The term mamãe belongs to a family of 'mama' words found in many unrelated languages, which linguists believe mimics the natural sounds infants make.
Examples in context
- Você vai virar mamãe.You're going to be a mommy.This sentence shows how the word mamãe can be used to describe a state of becoming a mother.Tatoeba #1121822 by alexmarcelo, translation #1121820 by CN
- Mamãe, posso ir nadar?Mommy, may I go swimming?This sentence demonstrates using mamãe as a direct address to ask permission.Tatoeba #5170812 by ToinhoAlam, translation #484077 by CK
- Mamãe, estou com dor de barriga.Mommy, I have a tummy ache.This sentence shows how a child might use mamãe when expressing physical discomfort.Tatoeba #12539853 by laetitiamg, translation #2354283 by orcrist
- Obrigado pela ajuda, mãe.Thank you for the help, Mom.
- Querida mamãe, espero que esteja bem.Dear Mommy, I hope you are well.
- Mamã, posso sair hoje à noite?Mommy, can I go out tonight?
- Mãezinha, eu te amo muito.Mommy, I love you very much.
- 4 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Gabriel is asking his mother for a snack.
- JulianaMamãe, eu quero um biscoito.Mommy, I want a cookie.
- GabrielAgora não, Gabriel. Já vamos comer.Not now, Gabriel. We are about to eat.
- JulianaPor favor, mamãe!Please, mommy!
- GabrielTudo bem, só um biscoito.All right, just one cookie.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry mamãe, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
