Grandmother

Definition

Grandmother is a noun that refers to the mother of one’s father or mother. In a familial context, a grandmother often plays a significant role in the upbringing and care of grandchildren.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɡrændˌmʌðər/
• Respelling: GRAND-muh-thur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɡrɑːndˌmʌðə/
• Respelling: GRAHND-muh-thuh

Etymology

The word "grandmother" originates from the combination of the prefix "grand-," indicating a generation above, and "mother." The prefix "grand-" comes from Old French "grand," meaning "large or great," derived from the Latin "grandis." The term has been used since the 15th century to denote familial relationships across generations.

Derivatives

• Grandmom (noun, informal)
• Grandma (noun, informal)
• Granny (noun, informal)
• Great-grandmother (noun)
• Grandmotherly (adjective)

Synonyms

• Nana
• Gram
• Grandma

Antonyms

• Grandfather
• None

Usage

The noun "grandmother" is used in familial contexts, such as "My grandmother loves baking cookies for us." It is also used metaphorically to signify wisdom or care, e.g., "She was like a grandmother to the whole community."

Related Terms

• Mother: The female parent of a child.
• Ancestor: A person from whom one is descended.
• Family: A group consisting of parents and children living together.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The mother of one’s parent: Refers to a female grandparent.
  • Example: "Her grandmother told her stories about the old days."
• A term of endearment for an older, caring woman: Often used informally or metaphorically.
  • Example: "She acted like a grandmother to all the children in the neighborhood."