dada
The Ewe word for mother is dada.
dada is the noun used to refer to a female human who has given birth to or is parenting a child.
Meaning: female (human) who gives birth to or parents a child (noun)
When do people say it?
In Ewe culture, the term Mama is used to refer to an older woman who holds a significant maternal role.
Did you know?
- The Ewe language uses a system of tones, meaning the pitch used to say dada can change the meaning of the word entirely.
- In some Ewe-speaking communities, calling an older woman 'dada' is a sign of deep respect rather than an assumption of biological relation.
- The concept of 'mother' in Ewe culture often extends to include the mother's sisters, who are sometimes treated with the same social weight as a biological mother.
Example conversation
Koffi is asking Akosua about her family.
- KoffiWò dadaa le afí a?Is your mother here?
- AkosuaƐɛ, dadaa le agbo.Yes, mother is inside.
- KoffiÉnyenya be mava dzo a?Does she know I am coming?
- AkosuaƐɛ, mègblɔ na dadaa be nava.Yes, I told mother that you would come.
