Familynoun
Mama
MAH-mah / NAH-nai
EnglishMother / Mom
Word of the Day · Friday, May 22, 2026
Mama — Bisaya Word of the Day for May 22, 2026
Origin & Etymology
Bisaya families use three interchangeable words for "mother" — "Mama," "Nanay," and the more formal "Inahan" — with the choice usually coming down to family tradition and regional habit rather than any strict rule.
How Bisaya Speakers Use It
Which term a family uses often reveals generation and region: "Nanay" leans older and more traditional in some households, while "Mama" is common in cities and among younger families.
Example Sentences
Looking for your mother at home
Asa si Mama? Wa ko kakita niya.
“Where's Mom? I haven't seen her.”
Describing a home-cooked meal
Nagluto si Mama ug sinigang para sa panihapon.
“Mom cooked sinigang for dinner.”
Planning a call with an overseas parent
Tawagan nato si Mama gabii.
“Let's call Mom tonight.”
Test Your Knowledge
Quick Quiz
Besides "Mama," what are two other common Bisaya words for "mother"?
Related Bisaya Words
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "Mama" mean in Bisaya?
"Mama" means "Mother / Mom" in Bisaya/Cebuano. It is a noun in the Family category, pronounced as "MAH-mah / NAH-nai".
How do you pronounce "Mama" in Cebuano?
"Mama" is pronounced "MAH-mah / NAH-nai". The stressed syllable is indicated by capital letters in the phonetic guide.
How do you use "Mama" in a Bisaya sentence?
Example: "Asa si Mama? Wa ko kakita niya." — "Where's Mom? I haven't seen her.". Which term a family uses often reveals generation and region: "Nanay" leans older and more traditional in some households, while "Mama" is common in cities and among younger families.
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