Mamie
/ma.mi/
The English phrase "nanna" is translated into French as Mamie.
Mamie is a widely used term for a grandmother.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec, the term Mémé is commonly used.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 2 syllables and is pronounced /ma.mi/.
Did you know?
- While Mamie is a sweet term for a grandmother, in some regions of France, calling someone Mémé can feel quite old-fashioned or even slightly derogatory, implying the person is elderly and frail.
- In France, the term Mamie is often paired with Papy for grandfather, creating a rhyming set of nicknames that differs from the more formal Grand-père.
- The diminutive nature of Mamie follows a common French pattern where the '-ie' suffix is added to create a softer, more affectionate sound for family members.
Examples in context
- Bonjour, grand-maman, comment allez-vous aujourd'hui ?Hello, Nanna, how are you today?
- Mémère, auriez-vous une recette de tarte aux pommes à partager ?Nanna, would you have a recipe for apple pie to share?
- Bonjour, Mamie ! Tu veux bien me raconter une histoire ?Hello, Nanna! Would you like to tell me a story?
- Mamy, tu es la meilleure cuisinière du monde !Nanna, you are the best cook in the world!
- Ma chère grand-maman, je suis si reconnaissant(e) de t'avoir dans ma vie.My dear Nanna, I am so grateful to have you in my life.
- Ma Mamie est très gentille.My granny is very kind.
- On va chez Mamie ce soir.We are going to Granny's house tonight.
- J'ai fait un dessin pour Mamie.I made a drawing for Granny.
Example conversation
Léa and Hugo are talking in the kitchen about their weekend plans.
- LéaTu veux appeler Mamie ?Do you want to call Granny?
- HugoOui, je vais lui téléphoner.Yes, I am going to call her.
- LéaElle sera très contente de t'entendre.She will be very happy to hear from you.
- HugoC'est vrai, elle me manque.True, I miss her.
Sources
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry mamie.
