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Mammy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mammy

[ˈmæmi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

informal term

Mammy is an affectionate term primarily used to refer to a mother or maternal figure, especially in certain cultures. It conveys warmth and intimacy and can also denote an older woman who takes on a caring role. The term is often used in a nostalgic or endearing context.

Synonyms

mama, mom, mother, mum.

Examples of usage

  • She always calls her mother 'Mammy' whenever she needs comfort.
  • In the movie, the main character refers to his grandmother as Mammy.
  • He misses his Mammy's cooking whenever he's away from home.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • 'Mammy' has been used in African American culture historically, particularly in literature and film, often depicting a nurturing enslaved woman.
  • The term can evoke complex feelings and discussions about race, identity, and representation in media, especially in the context of stereotypical depictions.

Literature

  • The character of 'Mammy' appears prominently in works like 'Gone with the Wind,' showcasing the dual role of caretaker and the struggles of African American women during that era.
  • It can be seen as a symbol of maternal sacrifice and strength, although often criticized for reinforcing certain racial stereotypes.

Psychology

  • The term reflects the important psychological attachment formed between a child and their mother or maternal figure, which can influence emotional development.
  • In attachment theory, a strong bond with a 'mammy' figure is often associated with feelings of security and trust.

Folklore

  • In some cultural traditions, 'mammy' is used to describe wise women or grandmothers who pass down knowledge and stories to younger generations.
  • The term often embodies themes of nurturing, wisdom, and the importance of family in folklore narratives.

Origin of 'mammy'

Main points about word origin

  • This term comes from a diminutive form of 'mama,' used by children to refer to their mothers.
  • It has roots in various cultures, often conveying warmth and caring, reflective of maternal bonds.

The word 'mammy' has its roots in the early 19th century, deriving from the term 'mamma', which is itself a diminutive of 'mother'. 'Mamma' is derived from the Latin 'mamma', meaning 'mother' or 'breast', which can be traced back to earlier forms in Indo-European languages. 'Mammy' has particularly cultural significance in African American communities, where it has been used to refer to a nurturing figure or caregiver, sometimes in the context of the antebellum South. The term has carried a complex history, as it has also been used in a stereotypical way to describe black women in servile roles, particularly in literature and film. Over time, 'mammy' has evolved in various cultural contexts, often embodying the affectionate, nurturing archetype of motherhood, while also raising discussions about race and representation.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,841, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.