ma
“ma” means “Mom” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
Mom
Also: Ma
📝 In Action
¡Hola, ma! ¿Cómo estuvo tu día?
A1Hi, mom! How was your day?
Ma, ¿me ayudas con la tarea?
A1Ma, can you help me with my homework?
Le pregunté a mi ma si podía salir.
A2I asked my mom if I could go out.
babe / girl
Also: more
📝 In Action
¿Qué pasa, ma? ¿A dónde vas?
B2What's up, babe? Where are you going?
Ella es la que ma' me gusta.
C1She is the one I like the most (Caribbean style).
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ma
Question 1 of 3
What is the most likely meaning of 'ma' when spoken by a child?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
A shortened form (clipping) of 'mamá', which comes from the Latin 'mamma', representing the natural sound infants make when seeking their mother.
First recorded: 19th century (as an informal shortening)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'ma' the same as 'mami'?
Almost! Both are affectionate and informal, but 'ma' is a shorter clipping of 'mamá', while 'mami' is a diminutive. They are used similarly in families.
Do people in Spain say 'ma'?
It is much less common in Spain. You are more likely to hear 'mamá' or 'mami'. 'Ma' is more characteristic of Mexican and Caribbean Spanish.
Is there a male version of 'ma'?
Yes! The male equivalent is 'pa', which is short for 'papá' (dad).