faʻē
The Tongan word for mother is faʻē.
The word faʻē refers to a female human who gives birth to or parents a child.
Meaning: female (human) who gives birth to or parents a child (noun)
Which one should you use?
While faʻē is the standard term, Mama is used specifically as an informal way to say mother.
Did you know?
- While faʻē is the general term, the Tongan language uses an entirely different set of vocabulary when speaking to or about royalty, meaning a queen mother is not called a faʻē.
- In Tongan culture, the concept of motherhood is often tied to the hierarchical structure of the 'fahu', where a mother's rank determines the social status of her children.
- In many Tongan families, a child might call several older female relatives 'mother' or use maternal titles, reflecting a communal approach to upbringing.
Examples in context
- Mālō e lelei, Mama!Hello, Mom!
Example conversation
Mele and Viliami are talking about their family.
- MeleKo e hē faʻē ʻa koe?Where is your mother?
- ViliamiʻOku ʻi he kolo ʻa boku faʻē.My mother is in the village.
- MeleʻOku toe ʻinoʻino pē ia?Is she still angry?
- ViliamiʻIkai, ʻoku fiefia ia.No, she is happy.
