All the nicknames for Grandparents used across the UK - and it's more than you think

There are over 100 names for grandparents around the UK, according to a recent study
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


With National Grandparents Day approaching on October 6, one study has revealed over 100 nicknames for grandparents across the UK. The study by Preply , who ordinarily provide online English language classes, gathered the data from google searches, social media, and online books and articles and concluded with these findings.

They revealed "Grandma" is Britain's top nickname choice for grandmothers, scoring an overall popularity score of 8 out of 10. The most popular nicknames for a grandfather among Brits are "Granddad", "Grandpa" and "Papa".

Close behind Grandma, “Granny” took second place with an overall popularity score of 7.59 out of 10. In third place, “Nan” scored 6.82 out of 10. It was the most popular term in written texts, highlighting its enduring presence in everyday language. The wide variety of grandparent nicknames in the UK also reflects global influences.

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“Nonna,” an Italian favourite, ranked 9th while Welsh names were also present as “Nain” took 8th place and “Mamgu” took 10th, representing North and South variations of ‘grandmother’.

For Grandfathers, second place went to “Grandpa” or “Grampa”, which scored 4.82 out of 10. “Papa” came in third, securing a score of 3.53 out of 10. Despite its lower ranking in online searches and discussions, “Papa” stood out as the most commonly used term in written texts, showcasing its steady presence in family language.

Yolanda del Peso, a language expert at Preply, shared why there are so many variations to the way we refer to our grandparents:

“Our research reveals a wide array of names used to refer to grandparents, reflecting the unique linguistic and cultural influences across the UK. The variety of grandparent nicknames shows how these beloved figures are uniquely cherished and described in different ways.

“The many variations in how we refer to our grandparents stem from cultural diversity, personal family traditions, and the desire for unique and affectionate terms. Children’s speech often plays a key role in shaping these nicknames.

“Young children may simplify or creatively adapt words, which can then become the enduring names for their grandparents. Each term carries its own significance, illustrating the special bond between grandparents and their families.

“Whether it’s a traditional name or a more regional term, these nicknames offer a glimpse into the personal and cultural contexts that shape how we address our loved ones.”