Nanna
/ˈnan.na/
Nanna is the Maltese word for grandmother.
Nanna is an informal term used to refer to a grandmother.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /ˈnan.na/. It has two syllables, and the stress is on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- While nanna refers to a grandmother, the Maltese word for the act of sleeping or a nap is also nanna.
- The word nanna is borrowed from Sicilian, reflecting the deep historical and linguistic influence of Sicily on the Maltese islands.
- The term is so central to the domestic identity that many Maltese brands or local businesses use the word to evoke a sense of home and tradition.
Examples in context
- L-imħabba ta' nanna kienet kbira.Nanna's love was great.
- Nanna, nista' neħodu l-għin tiegħek?Nanna, can I have your help?
- Għandna nanna sabiħa ħafna.We have a very lovely nanna.
Example conversation
Paul and Myriam are talking about their family plans.
- PaulSe tmur iżżur lin-Nanna?Are you going to visit grandma?
- MyriamIva, sejjaħt lin-Nanna lbierah.Yes, I called grandma yesterday.
- PaulTħobb li tmur miegħek?Do you want me to go with you?
- MyriamIva, in-Nanna se tkun ferħana ħafna.Yes, grandma will be very happy.
Sources
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry nanna.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nanna, CC BY-SA 4.0.
