How to Refer to Your Grandma in Spanish

Quick Answer

Abuelais the most common way to say grandma, but there are also many more ways to refer to your grandma in Spanish.

Common Ways to Refer to Your Grandma

Abuela and abuelitaare the general terms for grandma used in all Spanish-speaking countries. They are used interchangeably when talking about and to your grandma. The main difference lies in the use of the diminutive -ita, which is added to show love/affection.

Take a look at these examples!

examples
Mi abuela vive en el campo. My grandma lives in the countryside.
¡Eres la mejor, abuelita! You’re the best, Grandma!

In English, the word grandma should be capitalized whenever you're using it instead of a person's proper name, e.g. I love you, Grandma. Abuela, on the other hand, is never capitalized.

Nicknames

The abuela is an extremely important member of the Hispanic family, so it’s important that you can refer to her in a variety of affectionate ways.

Take a look at the following examples to learn how to refer to your grandma in a more fun-loving manner!

examples
Su abue los cuida mientras su mamá trabaja. Their granny looks after them while their mom is at work.
Extraño a mi abu. I miss my grandma.
Nana, ¿nos preparas un pastel de manzana? Nana, will you make us apple pie?
Te amo, yaya. I love you, gram.
Me encanta la casa de tu yeya. I love your grandma’s house.
Mi nona es la persona más cariñosa que conozco. My granny is the most loving person I know.