English Reference
noun · adjective · verb

granny

n. · adj. · v.
US /ˈɡɹæni/ UK /ɡɹˈæni/ granny

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Informal

    n.a warm and informal name for your grandmother.

    n.an informal, affectionate term for a grandmother.

    Simple

    We are going to visit my granny this weekend for her birthday.

    In context

    The children spent every summer at their granny's cottage, creating memories that would last well into their own adulthood.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate Informal

    n.a name for any older woman, even if she is not your relative.

    n.a colloquial term for an elderly woman, often used regardless of actual familial relationship.

    Simple

    The little granny at the bus stop offered me a sweet.

    In context

    The local community centre organised a weekly tea dance that was popular with the neighbourhood grannies.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    adj.describes clothes or styles that look like they belong to an older woman.

    adj.denoting a style of clothing or accessory perceived as old-fashioned or characteristic of an elderly woman.

    Simple

    She wore a pair of vintage granny boots with her long skirt.

    In context

    The fashion designer's latest collection featured oversized cardigans and floral prints that leaned heavily into a granny aesthetic.

    old fashionedvintage
  4. 04 C2 Proficiency InformalHumorous

    v.to act like a grandmother by worrying or fussing over small things.

    v.to behave in a fussy or overprotective manner typical of a stereotypical grandmother.

    Simple

    Stop granny-ing me; I can cook my own dinner.

    In context

    He felt smothered by his roommates who would constantly granny him about his diet and sleep schedule.

    fussmothercoddle
This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated