la maman

Meaning (in English)

Maman means “mom” / “mum” in French. It is the common, affectionate word a child (or even an adult in a familiar tone) uses to address or refer to their mother.

It can be used:

• as a form of address: Maman, viens ici ! → “Mom, come here!”
• to talk about one’s mother: Ma maman travaille. → “My mom works.”

Parts / Form

• From mère (“mother”), but maman is the familiar/childlike term.
• Often seen with possessives: ma maman (“my mom”), ta maman (“your mom”), sa maman (“his/her mom”).

French synonyms (close in meaning)

• mère (more neutral/formal: “mother”)
• maman is itself the most standard familiar term; other more colloquial options include:
  • maman chérie (“dear mom”)
  • mom / môman (more informal, depending on region and style)

French antonyms (if applicable)

• papa (“dad”) is the closest opposite in family terms.
• père (“father”) is the formal/neutral counterpart.