mammy

[ mam-ee ]

noun

, plural mam·mies.

1. Informal. mother ¹.
2. Disparaging and Offensive. (formerly in the southern United States) a Black woman engaged to take care of white children or as a servant to a white family.

mammy

/ ˈmæmɪ /

noun

1. See mother
   a child's word for mother 1
2. a Black woman employed as a nurse or servant to a White family

Sensitive Note

At the time of the Civil War and into the 20th century, the mammy was characterized as being strong, kind, and loyal. But her image was also that of an overweight, unattractive, and often illiterate enslaved household servant. This reinforced the association of this designation with racial stereotypes of inferiority and abject submissiveness. Aunt Jemima.

Word History and Origins

Origin of mammy¹

First recorded in 1515–25; mamm(a) ¹ + -y ²

Example Sentences

I looked up at sound of a startled exclamation, and beheld the round African physog of Lyn Rowan's colored mammy.

From Project Gutenberg

But, Mandy Ann held her back and whispered, "Can't you done 'have yerself at yer mammy's funeral an' we the only mourners?"

From Project Gutenberg

It is cold, Mammy, said Jess to the Beldings old serving woman.

From Project Gutenberg

"You naughty fairy," said her big brother, catching her and handing her over to mammy after the kiss was bestowed.

From Project Gutenberg

We are getting on very well, though I think Joanna is too bossy, and mammy is nearly as bad.

From Project Gutenberg