English Reference
noun · interjection

mama

n. · interj.
US /ˈmɑmə/ UK /mˈɑːmɐ/ ma·ma UK spelling mamas

  1. 01 A1 Beginner Informal

    n.a name for a mother, used especially by children or when speaking warmly about her.

    n.an informal and often affectionate term for a female parent. Frequently used as a vocative or a proper noun within a family unit.

    Simple

    The little boy ran to his mama as soon as he saw her.

    In context

    Even as an adult, he occasionally referred to his mother as 'mama' when they were alone together in the family home.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate InformalDialect

    n.a respectful or friendly way to address a woman, especially an older one.

    n.a term of address for a woman, often used to show respect to an elder or familiarity within certain communities.

    Simple

    Excuse me, mama, could you tell me where the nearest bus stop is?

    In context

    In many Caribbean communities, addressing an older woman as 'mama' is a sign of deep cultural respect rather than a claim of kinship.

    ma'ammother
  3. 03 C1 Advanced SlangInformal

    n.a slang word for an attractive woman or a girlfriend.

    n.a slang term for a sexually attractive woman or a romantic partner, such as a wife or girlfriend.

    Simple

    He called his girlfriend 'hot mama' as a playful compliment.

    In context

    The lyrics of the song used 'mama' as a generic term of endearment for a beautiful woman the singer encountered at a club.

  4. 04 B1 Intermediate Informal

    interj.a word used to show you are surprised, impressed, or excited.

    interj.an exclamation used to express a range of emotions including surprise, joy, or approval; frequently preceded by 'oh'.

    Simple

    Oh mama, that is the biggest cake I have ever seen.

    In context

    When the fireworks finally erupted over the harbour, a collective 'oh mama' rose from the impressed crowd.

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Common
Updated