grandma
/'grænmɑ:/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- The mother of one's father or mother: "Grandma" is an informal, affectionate term for one's grandmother, the mother of either parent.
- An elderly woman, especially in a familial or affectionate context: The word can also be used more generally as a familiar or endearing term for an older woman.
Usage
- "Grandma" is primarily used as a direct form of address or a familiar reference within a family.
- It is an informal and warm term. In more formal contexts, "grandmother" is preferred.
- It can be capitalized ("Grandma") when used as a proper name or direct substitute for a name.
Examples
- As a familial reference:
- I'm going to visit my grandma this weekend.
- My grandma makes the best apple pie.
- As a direct form of address:
- "Grandma, can you tell me a story?"
- I love you, Grandma.
Advanced Usage
- "Great-grandma": Refers to the grandmother of one's parent (i.e., one's great-grandmother).
- My great-grandma is 95 years old.
- Used metaphorically or affectionately for a non-related older woman:
- Everyone in the neighborhood calls her Grandma Smith because she's so kind.
Variants and Related Words
- Grandmother (n): The standard, more formal term for the mother of one's father or mother.
- Granny (n): Another common informal variant of "grandma."
- Nana / Nanna (n): Informal, affectionate terms similar to "grandma."
- Grandmama (n): A slightly more formal or old-fashioned variant.
- Grandparent (n): A general term for either a grandmother or a grandfather.
Synonyms
- Grandmother: The formal equivalent.
- Granny: Informal synonym with a similar tone.
- Nana: Informal, affectionate synonym.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- Like grandma used to make: Used to describe something (especially food) that is traditional, homemade, or exceptionally good in an old-fashioned way.
- This stew tastes like grandma used to make.
- Grandma's attic: Refers to a place full of old, forgotten, or nostalgic items.
- That old trunk came straight out of grandma's attic.
Noun
- the mother of your father or mother