yaya
/ˈʝaʝa/
In Spanish, yaya is an informal or affectionate way to say grandma.
yaya is a term used to refer to a grandmother, typically used by children or within close family circles to express affection.
Which one should you use?
The standard, formal word for grandmother is abuela. In contrast, yaya is a more affectionate and child-like term. While yaya refers to a grandmother, the masculine counterpart is yayo, which is used to refer to a grandfather.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
yaya is an informal and affectionate term. It is appropriate for use within families, whereas abuela is the more standard and formal choice.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʝaʝa/
Did you know?
- The word yaya may have entered Spanish from the Modern Greek word γιαγιά 'giagiá' which also means 'grandmother'.
- In certain Caribbean Spanish dialects, yaya can refer to a nanny or a domestic worker who has cared for a family for many years.
- In some parts of Spain, calling someone yaya can be a playful, teasing way to call them 'old' or 'elderly' among friends.
Examples in context
- Mi yaya me hace galletas ricas.My yaya makes me yummy cookies.
- La yaya me contó un cuento.The yaya told me a story.
- ¡Te quiero mucho, yaya!I love you very much, yaya!
Example conversation
Elena and Javier are talking about their weekend plans.
- Elena¿Vas a ir a casa de tu yaya?Are you going to your grandma's house?
- JavierSí, voy el domingo con mi padre.Yes, I am going on Sunday with my father.
- Elena¡Qué bien! Dale un beso de mi parte.That's great! Give her a kiss for me.
- JavierSe lo diré a mi yaya.I will tell my grandma.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry yaya, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries yaya, CC BY-SA 4.0.
