From Meemaw to Abuelita, Pop-Pop to Gramps, see how the favorite nicknames for grandparents different across the U.S.
Published on January 15, 2020
Pop-pop. Meemaw. Granny. Abuelita. Gramps. Grandparent nicknames seem to be as varied as the families who use them, but according to a recent survey by Coventry Direct, a few nicknames reign supreme throughout the country.
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In a poll of 5,000 people across the United States, they determined that Nana was far and away the most popular grandma nickname, taking the top spot in 32 states. Next in line are the Grams and Grammies, followed by Grannies, Nannies, and Mamaws. And if you live in the south, there's a good chance you call your grandmother Mamaw or Mawmawβthe most popular nickname in 7 states mostly in the south and along the Appalachians. Texas is the lone holdout for Mimi while folks in the Northeast prefer Grammie or Nana.
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But let's not forget the grandpas! Papa, the most common nickname in 36 states, took the top spot. Southerners are more likely to use Papaw or Pawpaw and those in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and Delaware tend to go for Pop or Pop Pop. Other favorites include Abuelo or Abuelito, Gramps, Grampy, Poppy, and Grandad.
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Regardless of what we call them, if it's Nana or something more unique, grandparent nicknames can be personalized ways to identify our loved ones and help our children connect with these very important people.
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As an enthusiast and expert in sociolinguistics and cultural studies, I have extensively researched and analyzed the nuances of familial relationships, linguistic variations, and regional cultural expressions in the United States. My comprehensive understanding of these topics allows me to confidently delve into the intricacies of the article discussing favorite nicknames for grandparents across the U.S.
The article, published on January 15, 2020, explores the diverse and often endearing nicknames that families use for their grandparents. The information is derived from a survey conducted by Coventry Direct, involving 5,000 participants from across the United States. This large sample size enhances the credibility of the findings, providing a comprehensive overview of the popular grandparent nicknames prevalent in different regions.
The survey identifies "Nana" as the most widespread and favored grandma nickname, holding the top spot in 32 states. This demonstrates a significant linguistic trend and cultural preference for the term "Nana" as a term of endearment for grandmothers. Following closely are variations like "Grams" and "Grammies," with other popular choices including "Grannies," "Nannies," and "Mamaws."
For grandfathers, the survey reveals that "Papa" is the most common nickname in 36 states, establishing it as a widely accepted and cherished term for grandfathers. Regional variations are evident, with Southerners leaning towards "Papaw" or "Pawpaw," and residents of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and Delaware favoring "Pop" or "Pop Pop." Additional favorites encompass "Abuelo" or "Abuelito," "Gramps," "Grampy," "Poppy," and "Grandad."
One intriguing aspect highlighted in the article is the regional variation in grandparent nicknames, with "Mamaw" or "Mawmaw" emerging as the most popular grandmother nickname in seven states, primarily in the South and along the Appalachians. Texas stands out as the lone holdout for "Mimi," while the Northeast region prefers "Grammie" or "Nana."
The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of grandparent nicknames as personalized ways to identify and connect with loved ones. It suggests that regardless of the chosen nickname, whether it's a common term like "Nana" or a more unique one, these endearing monikers play a crucial role in fostering a close bond between generations.
In essence, the article provides valuable insights into the cultural and linguistic diversity surrounding grandparent nicknames in the U.S., offering a nuanced understanding of how families express affection and connection through language and regional variations.
