How to Say “Mum” in Italian

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mamma
/ˈmam.ma/feminine
The English phrase mum is translated into Italian as mamma.
The word mamma is an informal way to say mum.
Meaning: mother (informal, familiar) (noun)

Which one should you use?

While mamma is the affectionate and informal term for 'mum', madre is the more formal and biological term for 'mother'.

Is it said differently in some regions?

Mà is a regional variation used in Southern Italy, particularly in Naples and its surrounding areas.

How does it change in a sentence?

The plural of mamma is le mamme. You can also use the diminutive mammina to express extra tenderness or endearment.

How do you pronounce it?

The word consists of 2 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable: /ˈmam.ma/.

Did you know?

  • The word mamma is central to the cultural concept of mammismo, a term describing the strong emotional attachment and lifelong bond between Italian children and their mothers.
  • The Italian word mamma shares the same Latin root as the English word 'mammal', which refers to creatures that nurse their young with milk.
  • If you use the more formal madre in a highly emotional or affectionate context, it can sound cold, distant, or even clinical to an Italian ear.

Examples in context

  • È come sua mamma.
    She's like her mum.
    This sentence shows how someone is compared to her mamma.
    Tatoeba #1213572 by Guybrush88, translation #1213517 by alec
  • La mamma è a casa.
    Mum is home.
    This sentence is used to say that mamma is at home.
    Tatoeba #2863450 by Guybrush88, translation #2863449 by sundown
  • Mia mamma mi vizia.
    My mum spoils me.
    This sentence expresses how mamma spoils someone.
    Tatoeba #7796544 by Guybrush88, translation #7796025 by sharris123
  • Mi prepari sempre la mia pasta preferita, mamma.
    You always prepare my favorite pasta, Mum.
  • Mamma, la tua lasagna è la migliore del mondo.
    Mum, your lasagna is the best in the world.
  • 67 more sentences on Tatoeba

Example conversation

Francesco and Sofia are talking about their weekend plans.

  1. Francesco

    Andi a trovare tua mamma?
    Are you going to visit your mum?
  2. Sofia

    Sì, vado da mamma domani.
    Yes, I'm going to mum's tomorrow.
  3. Francesco

    Salutami tua mamma allora!
    Say hello to your mum then!
  4. Sofia

    Certamente, glielo dirò.
    Of course, I will tell her.

Sources

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Josephine Mae
Josephine MaeHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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