Granny Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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granny

[ˈɡræni ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

family

An informal term for a grandmother, especially a grandmother who is kind, caring, and often spoils her grandchildren. Grannies are known for their wisdom, warmth, and love.

Synonyms

grammy, grandmother, nana.

Examples of usage

  • My granny always bakes the best cookies for us.
  • When I was a child, my granny used to tell me bedtime stories.
  • We are going to visit my granny this weekend.
  • Grannies are the best at giving hugs.
  • I love spending time with my granny.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures hold grandmothers in high esteem, often viewing them as the foundation of family traditions and wisdom.
  • In some societies, grandmothers take care of grandchildren while parents are working, highlighting their vital role in family life.
  • Folklore and fairy tales often feature grandmothers, portraying them as wise figures or sources of moral lessons.

Pop Culture

  • Granny characters appear frequently in movies and TV shows, often embodying warmth, humor, and wisdom.
  • The term 'granny' is used in popular songs and literature, making it a familiar reference in storytelling and music.
  • In gaming culture, 'granny' can refer to older characters who possess unique abilities or knowledge, adding depth to the narrative.

Psychology

  • Research shows that strong connections with grandmothers can boost a child’s emotional intelligence and social skills.
  • Grandparents often play a crucial role in a child's sense of security and identity, providing guidance through their life experiences.
  • The presence of a 'granny' figure can be comforting, as they often offer unconditional love and support, strengthening family bonds.

Literature

  • Many children's books feature grannies as key characters, offering lessons on kindness, perseverance, and love.
  • In classic fairy tales, grandmothers are often portrayed with magical or mystical traits, influencing the story's path.
  • Authors like Roald Dahl have created memorable granny characters that resonate with readers of all ages, blending humor and wisdom.

Origin of 'granny'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'granny' comes from the word 'grandmother', which is a combination of 'grand' meaning large or significant, and 'mother'.
  • In the 19th century, 'granny' started being used as a familiar way to refer to grandmothers, showing affection.
  • Different languages have their own unique terms for grandmother; for example, 'nana' and 'oma' are commonly used in various cultures.

The word 'granny' originated from the Middle English word 'grannian', which meant 'to make a noise like a cat'. Over time, it evolved to refer to a grandmother, especially in an affectionate or informal way. The term 'granny' is commonly used in English-speaking countries to refer to a grandmother, and it carries connotations of warmth, love, and family.


See also: gran, granule.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,854, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.