mama

Also mom·ma
Or mam·ma

[mah-muh, muh-mah]

noun

1. Informal.,  mother.

2. Slang.

   1. a sexually attractive, usually mature woman.

   2. one's wife.

mama

/ məˈmɑː /

noun

1. old-fashioned,  an informal word for mother 1

Word History and Origins

Origin of mama¹

First recorded in 1545–55; nursery word, with parallels in other European languages, probably in part inherited or borrowed, in part newly formed; compare Latin mamma, Greek mámmē “breast, mama” ( mamma ² ), French maman “mama,” Welsh mam “mother” (from unattested mammā )

Example Sentences

“Why do you feel, as a man, you get to ask me those types of questions? Act like you have some manners. And your mama taught you, respect women.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Yes, the heart-shaped lips and resting pout do some heavy lifting to pull off the baseball-loving mama’s boy, but Butler’s authenticity is irrefutable.

Read more on Salon

“And that beautiful little baby. God, I hope, whatever happened, she’s with her mama.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

We saw mama bears splashing around with their cubs, black bears fishing for salmon in the creek, one little cub napping in the sun, and so many birds I lost count.

Read more on Salon

Pratt flew home to Morgan City, La., “to see my mama and my homefolks,” he said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• female 
• girl 
• woman 

When To Use

What does mama mean?

Mama is an informal word for mother.Mama can also be spelled momma and mamma. Mama is informal, and it’s often used by young children, much like the word mommy. Adults also sometimes use mama to refer to their mothers, especially when they have a close relationship.The word can be used as a title for one’s mother, as in You should call Mama, and as a way to address her, as in Hi, Mama—happy Mother’s Day! In these two uses, the word is usually capitalized since it’s used like a proper name.Mama can also be used as an informal way to refer to one’s mother, as in You should call your mama. Call your mama whatever you want—just remember to call her.