104 Grandma Names: Alternatives to "Grandmother"

Coming up with the perfect name for grandma doesn't have to be difficult. Here's an inspiring list of names to keep the process fun and low-stress.

Welcoming a new grandchild into the family is one of life's most joyous occasions, creating ripples of excitement and love throughout the entire family tree. Whether it's the very first grandchild or another wonderful addition to a growing brood, this special time brings countless preparations, celebrations, and important decisions to make.

As the parent, you're likely managing most of these preparations, from setting up the nursery to choosing a pediatrician. But if this little one will be the first grandchild on one or both sides of your family, there's one particularly meaningful task that everyone can participate in: selecting what your child will call their grandmother. This name will likely stick for generations to come, making it an important family tradition in the making.

While many grandmothers cherish traditional names like Grandmother or Grandma, others might prefer something more distinctive that reflects their personality, cultural heritage, or desired grandparenting style. Some may gravitate toward names with cultural significance like Nonna or Abuela, while others might choose something playful like GiGi or Mimi. You might decide this name yourself, allow the grandmother-to-be to select her preferred title, or simply wait and see what organic nickname your child naturally creates once they begin speaking.

With everything else on your plate as an expecting or new parent, choosing grandmother names should be a delightful process rather than another stressful decision. To help inspire this special choice, we've compiled an extensive collection of grandmother names spanning traditional classics, cultural honorifics, modern twists, and uniquely endearing options. From Grammy to Lovey, Honey to MorMor, you're sure to find the perfect name that fits your family's newest matriarch and the special relationship she'll build with your little one.

The top 10 grandma names

1. Grandma - The classic choice that feels warm and familiar, perfect for a traditional grandmother figure.
2. Gran- Short, sweet, and easy for young children to pronounce, this name carries a touch of British charm.
3. Granny- An endearing term that evokes images of homemade cookies and cozy hugs, ideal for a nurturing grandmother.
4. Gram- Modern and concise, this name has gained popularity for its simplicity and casual feel.
5. Grammy- A playful and musical variation that adds a touch of sweetness to the grandmother role.
6. Gigi- Trendy and sophisticated, this name has French origins and works perfectly for the stylish grandmother.
7. Mamaw - With Southern roots, this heartfelt name brings warmth and a sense of heritage to the grandmother title.
8. Mimi- Elegant and easy to say, this name has become increasingly popular for modern grandmothers who want something distinctive.
9. Nana- Universal and timeless, this name resonates across many cultures and remains one of the most beloved grandmother terms.
10. Nanny- Affectionate and traditional, this name creates an immediate sense of comfort and care.

22 grandma names in other languages

Embracing cultural heritage through grandparent names creates a meaningful connection between generations. These international terms of endearment not only honor your family's linguistic traditions but also give your child's grandmother a title that feels authentic and personal to your family story.

Many families choose grandma names that reflect their cultural backgrounds, creating a beautiful link between past and present. These names become treasured terms that carry both history and affection, while also being distinctive alternatives to the more common 'Grandma' or 'Grandmother.'

• Abbi(Spanish, short for abuela)
• Abuela (Spanish)
• Amma(Icelandic)
• Avo(European Portuguese)
• Baba(Ukrainian)
• Babushka(Russian)
• Bibi(Swahili)
• Bomma(Flemish)
• Bubbe, Bubbieor Bubby (Yiddish)
• Farmor (Swedish, paternal side)
• Grand-mere (French)
• Laolao (Mandarin, maternal side)
• Mamie(Canadian French)
• Mamo(Irish)
• Mormor (Swedish, maternal side)
• Nainai(Mandarin, paternal side)
• Nonna(Italian)
• Oma(German)
• Savta (Hebrew)
• Tita(Spanish)
• Vovo(Brazilian Portuguese)
• Yia-Yia or Ya-Ya(Greek)

18 sassy grandma names

• Abba- A playful twist on traditional grandma names that carries a musical flair and makes for an easy pronunciation for little ones.
• Birdy- Perfect for the free-spirited grandmother who loves nature and brings a sense of whimsy to the family.
• Gabby- Ideal for the grandmother who loves to chat and share stories with her grandchildren, keeping family history alive.
• G-ma - A modern, hip shortening that maintains respect while adding contemporary style.
• G-mom - Blends the traditional role with a fresh vibe, perfect for grandmothers who embrace both worlds.
• Gram Cracker - A sweet and humorous name that children love to say and associates grandma with something delicious!
• Grams - Short, sweet, and endearing - this classic nickname has stood the test of time for good reason.
• Lola- With international flair, this name brings sophistication and a touch of glamour to grandmother status.
• Madam- For the regal, dignified grandmother who commands respect while maintaining her sense of humor.
• Meems- Cute and distinctive, with a modern edge that works well for grandmothers who don't feel their age.
• Mimzy- Whimsical and unique, perfect for the grandmother who defies convention and loves imagination.
• Nan- A timeless classic that feels both familiar and affectionate without being overly formal.
• Nene- Pronounced "nay-nay," this melodic name brings a touch of elegance and uniqueness.
• Tootsie- Playful and affectionate, ideal for the grandmother who brings joy and silliness to every interaction.
• Queenie- For the grandmother who rules the family with love and deserves a title that reflects her important position.
• Sassy- Perfect for the grandmother with spunk, style, and a tell-it-like-it-is personality.
• Sweetie- A tender name that captures the loving, nurturing nature many grandmothers embody.
• Za-Za - Exotic and memorable, this name suggests a grandmother who lives life with passion and flair.

21 cute grandma names

• Amma- A sweet, melodic name with roots in several cultures that carries a nurturing tone
• BeBe- Playful and easy for little ones to pronounce when they're just learning to talk
• Bosh- Unique and distinctive, perfect for grandmothers who want something completely original
• Bunny- Endearing and warm, ideal for the grandmother who's soft-hearted and cuddly
• ChaCha- Energetic and fun, suggesting a grandmother who loves to dance and play
• Gimmy - Quirky and memorable, standing out from traditional grandma names
• Gogo- Suggests an active, on-the-go grandmother who's always ready for adventure
• Golly - Old-fashioned charm with a touch of surprise and delight
• Gramsie - A gentle variation of 'Grams' with an affectionate diminutive ending
• Grancie - Combines 'Gran' with a sweet ending that feels both familiar and unique
• Gran-Gran - A repeating name that's easy for toddlers to master and carries double the affection
• Happy- Perfect for the joyful grandmother who brings sunshine into every room
• Kitty- Playful and spirited, suggesting someone with a youthful personality
• Lovie- Directly expresses the deep affection between grandchild and grandmother
• May-May- Rhythmic and catchy, with a springtime freshness
• Marmee - Literary-inspired (from 'Little Women') with a cozy, bookish feel
• Mom-Mom - Repetitive and easy for little ones to say while honoring her maternal role
• Moo-Maw - Rustic and homey with a country charm all its own
• Momsie - Combines motherly associations with a cute, diminutive ending
• Mumsy - British-inspired with a touch of elegance and old-world charm
• Pippa- Short and peppy, perfect for an active grandmother with a youthful spirit

20 other names for grandma

Finding the perfect grandma name is a meaningful decision that reflects personality, family traditions, and personal style. If traditional terms like 'Grandmother' or 'Granny' don't quite capture your essence, consider these creative alternatives that offer more flair and individuality. These playful, sweet, and distinctive names can help establish a special bond between you and your grandchildren from day one.

• Babs
• Bella
• Big Mama
• Coco
• Cookie
• Deedeeor Didi
• Fifi
• Gaga
• Gamma
• Gangie
• Glamma
• Gramma-Bamma
• Lala
• Lulu
• Mia
• Momo
• Nanner
• Uma
• Vava
• Yumma

13 gender-neutral grandparent names

Finding the perfect name for a grandparent doesn't have to follow traditional gender norms. Gender-neutral grandparent names offer inclusive options for nonbinary grandparents, those in the LGBTQ+ community, or families who simply prefer more modern terminology. These versatile titles can strengthen family bonds while honoring a grandparent's identity and preferences. The following names provide thoughtful alternatives to conventional grandmother or grandfather titles, allowing families to create their own special naming traditions.

• Baba
• Bibi
• Heart
• Honey
• Hugs
• Gramby
• Grandcestor
• Grandy
• Grandwa
• Nini
• Panda
• Punky
• Zippy

How to choose a grandma name

When grandma chooses her own name

Allowing grandma to select her own nickname is a time-honored tradition and often the most comfortable approach for many families. If the formal term "Grandmother" feels too stiff or aging for your mom, giving her the freedom to choose a name that reflects her personality can make the transition to grandparenthood more enjoyable for her.

However, be prepared for potential naming conflicts. Sometimes grandmas select names that might not align with your preferences or family dynamics. One Momcozy mom shared, "My mother-in-law wanted to be called Mimi, but that was already my mother's chosen name, so we had to have an awkward conversation about alternatives."

Consider setting gentle parameters before giving complete naming freedom. You might suggest categories like traditional names (Nana, Grammy), cultural names (Abuela, Yiayia), or even playful options (GiGi, Glamma) to guide the selection process while still allowing her personal input.

Remember that the most successful grandma names are ones that feel natural for everyone to say, especially as your child begins to talk. If the name your mother or mother-in-law chooses feels uncomfortable or conflicts with other important family names, don't hesitate to discuss alternatives collaboratively to find a name that honors her new role while working for the entire family.

When you choose the grandma name

Sometimes the grandmother may not feel comfortable selecting her own nickname, or you might want to take the initiative in choosing one that feels right for your family dynamic. Selecting a name yourself can be a thoughtful gesture that considers everyone's preferences and family relationships.

Many families have success with creative approaches. One mom shares, "My mother-in-law wasn't keen on traditional names, so I created LaLa for her by combining the last syllable of her name Darla with the final syllable of abuela. It became the perfect personalized grandmother name that she absolutely treasures!"

Choosing the grandmother name yourself can also help navigate complex family situations with sensitivity. As one parent explains, "When my father remarried, I suggested Gigi (short for Grandma Ginny) for my stepmother instead of just Grandma. This thoughtful distinction helped preserve my mother's special role while still honoring my stepmother's new position in our family."

For families with multiple sets of grandparents, coordinating complementary pairs can add charm while reducing confusion. Consider matching sets like Gram and Gramps, Nanny and Pappy, or the playful Lolly and Pop. These paired nicknames create a sweet family narrative while helping children distinguish between different grandparent sets.

When your child chooses the grandma name

Even if you or your child's grandma have carefully selected the perfect grandmother name, there's no guarantee it will be the one that sticks. When your little one begins to speak, which happens surprisingly quickly, they may create their own special nickname for grandma that becomes the cherished title everyone uses.

This organic naming process often results in the sweetest, most meaningful monikers. One Momcozy parent shared that her toddler started calling her mother-in-law Grandi, a clever play on her first name, Randi. These spontaneous names frequently capture the unique bond between grandchild and grandmother in ways a pre-selected title never could.

"We thought it was absolutely adorable and it fit her personality perfectly," the Momcozy mom explained. "Now everyone calls her Grandi, and she treasures the name more than any we could have chosen ourselves."

While waiting for your baby to develop speech skills, you'll need a temporary grandma name to use. Consider selecting a base name that feels right—whether traditional like Grandma or Nana, or something more distinctive like Mimi or Gigi. As your child grows, listen carefully to their attempts at pronouncing it. Their sweet mispronunciations might evolve into the perfect, personalized grandma name that becomes a cherished family tradition.

Many families find that letting grandmother select her own special name creates a meaningful connection. This approach honors her preferences and personality, which often leads to a name that she'll truly embrace. When a grandmother chooses her own moniker, she might select something from her cultural heritage like Nonna or Oma, opt for a playful twist like GiGi or Mimi, or create something entirely unique. One important consideration: there's always the possibility that you won't love her selection, but remember that this name represents her new identity in this special role. The name she chooses often reflects her vision of grandmotherhood and may hold special significance that becomes an important part of family traditions for years to come.

Many grandmothers have strong preferences about what they'd like to be called. While this choice is deeply personal, it can sometimes create tension when expectations differ. "When my mother-in-law announced she wanted to be called Glamma, we were surprised but supportive of her stylish choice," shares one mom. In other families, grandmothers might select names that honor their heritage like Nonna, Abuela, or Babushka. Some choose completely unique names that reflect their personality or interests. Remember that compromise is key—if grandmother's chosen name feels uncomfortable (especially if it's too close to 'Mom' or 'Mommy'), consider suggesting alternatives that honor her preference while maintaining boundaries that feel right for your family.

It's common for grandmothers to have preferences about what they'd like to be called. Some may have dreamed of a specific grandma name for years, while others might choose one based on cultural heritage or family traditions. When a grandmother selects her own name, it can be a meaningful way to establish her unique identity in your child's life. However, this sometimes creates tension if her choice doesn't align with parents' preferences. If you're concerned about potential naming conflicts, consider having an open conversation early on. Express appreciation for her input while gently explaining that you and your partner would like final approval on what your child will call their grandmother. This respectful approach allows everyone to feel heard while ensuring the name feels right for your family dynamic.

Selecting a grandmother name for someone else is a thoughtful gesture that requires consideration. Perhaps your mom or mother-in-law is uncomfortable with the process, or she's simply asked you to handle this special task. When choosing a name, consider her personality, cultural background, and what feels natural for your family. Traditional options like Grandma or Grammy work well, but you might also consider heritage-based names like Nonna or Abuela. For a more modern approach, look to shortened versions like Mimi or GiGi. Remember that the best grandma names often evolve naturally through use, so don't be surprised if your carefully chosen name transforms slightly as your little one begins to speak. Whatever name you select, ensure it's something everyone feels comfortable using and that honors the special relationship between grandmother and grandchild.

Selecting the perfect grandma name is a meaningful process that often blends personal preference, family heritage, and unique stories. Consider your cultural background, family traditions, or even personality traits that might inspire a special moniker. Many new grandmothers prefer alternatives to traditional names like Grandmother or Grandma, opting instead for something distinctive that reflects their individual style. You might draw inspiration from your own name, cultural heritage, or even personal hobbies. Some grandmothers choose playful names like Glamma or Mimi, while others prefer names that honor their ancestry such as Nonna or Oma. Remember that the best grandma names often evolve naturally and sometimes come from the endearing mispronunciations of your first grandchild!

Selecting a grandma name for yourself allows you to embrace a title that feels authentic to your personality and relationship with your grandchildren. This approach can be particularly meaningful if you have specific cultural connections you'd like to honor or if there are family traditions you want to continue. Some grandmothers choose names like Nana, Mimi, or Grammy based on personal preference, while others opt for more unique options like Lovey or GiGi. Consider your heritage, how the name sounds when little ones try to say it, and most importantly, how it makes you feel. The right grandma name should bring you joy each time you hear it, creating a special bond between you and your grandchildren that will last for generations.

Selecting the perfect grandma name is a special decision that can reflect family traditions, cultural heritage, or personal preferences. When you're helping choose this name, consider names that are easy for little ones to pronounce, have special meaning to your family, or honor your cultural background. You might opt for traditional names like Grandma or Grandmother, or more unique options like Mimi, Nana, or Gigi. Some families prefer to use grandparent name pairs that complement each other, such as Gram and Gramps or Lolly and Pop, which can be particularly helpful when there are multiple sets of grandparents. Remember that the best names often evolve naturally as children begin to speak, so be open to the possibility that your carefully chosen name might transform into something unexpected but equally endearing.

Sometimes the decision of what to call grandma isn't up to the adults at all. Children often create their own names for grandparents based on their early attempts at pronunciation. What starts as a mispronunciation of Grandma or Nana can evolve into an endearing and unique nickname that sticks for a lifetime. Your little one might transform a traditional name like Grammy into something completely unexpected and personal. These child-created names often become treasured family terms that carry special meaning and memories. If your child seems to be settling on their own version of grandma's name, embrace it—these organic nicknames frequently become the most meaningful. Many grandmothers cherish these one-of-a-kind names as they represent the special bond they share with their grandchildren.

Sometimes the most meaningful grandma names aren't carefully selected but naturally emerge from your child's early attempts at speech. These organic nicknames often become cherished family traditions. Many grandmothers find that their grandchildren's pronunciation of traditional terms like Grandma or Grandmother evolve into unique monikers like Gamma, Mimi, or Gigi. These child-created names typically reflect the special bond between grandchild and grandmother, carrying emotional significance that chosen names might not have. Don't be surprised if your toddler's creative pronunciation becomes your mother's most treasured title—one she'll proudly answer to for years to come, even when introducing herself to others outside the family.

It's becoming increasingly common for parents to select the names their children will call their grandparents. This approach can help avoid duplicate names within the family, ensure cultural traditions are honored, or simply satisfy personal preferences. When your child chooses the grandma name, they may draw inspiration from family heritage, popular grandma nicknames, or even create something entirely unique. "My daughter decided my mom would be called Mimi after hearing it at daycare, and it just stuck," shares one Momcozy parent. Sometimes these child-chosen names start as mispronunciations—Gamma instead of Grandma or Nana becoming Noni—that become treasured family terms of endearment. Whatever name emerges, embracing your child's choice creates a special bond between generations that's meaningful and personal.

One of the most authentic ways to choose a grandma name is to let your child take the lead naturally. Children often create endearing nicknames as they begin to speak, transforming formal titles into something uniquely special. As your little one's language develops, they might turn "Grandmother" into "Gammy" or "Mimi" without any prompting. These organic names typically stick and become treasured family titles that carry special meaning. While you might suggest certain names to your child, their pronunciation abilities and preferences will ultimately determine what grandma is called. This natural naming process creates a beautiful bond between grandmother and grandchild, with a name that evolves from genuine connection rather than tradition or preference.

Selecting the perfect grandma name is a special milestone in a grandmother's journey. While many grandmothers prefer to choose their own titles, sometimes your children might take the lead in this decision. When your child assigns a grandma name, it often stems from their own family traditions or personal preferences. They might select classic names like Grandma or Nana, or perhaps something more unique like Mimi or Gigi. This organic naming process can create a beautiful, meaningful connection between generations. Remember that whatever name emerges naturally - whether it's a traditional term or an adorable mispronunciation from a toddler - it will likely become a cherished part of your family's identity. If you're not comfortable with the suggested name, have a gentle conversation with your child about alternatives that honor both your preferences and family traditions.