noun Uncommon

mam

Mam (noun) means an informal, affectionate word for one's mother, common in British and Irish English. Example: “He rang his mam every Sunday evening.”

noun

An informal, affectionate word for one's mother, common in British and Irish English.

"He rang his mam every Sunday evening."

How to use mam

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA casual, warm way of saying "mum" or "mom," especially in Ireland, Wales, and parts of northern England.

When to use it

Informal and regional — used in speech and casual writing, not formal contexts.

Word forms

mams plural, mams plural

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He rang his _____ every Sunday evening.

Etymology

Alteration or clipping of mama. Compare Scots mam, Early Scots mame (“mother”), mamye (“wet nurse”), Saterland Frisian Määme (“mother”), West Frisian mem (“mother”). Alternatively, possibly either conserved from or influenced by earlier Brythonic language.

Frequently asked questions

What does “mam” mean?

The word “mam” means an informal, affectionate word for one's mother, common in British and Irish English. In plain terms, a casual, warm way of saying "mum" or "mom," especially in Ireland, Wales, and parts of northern England.

How do you pronounce “mam”?

“Mam” is pronounced mam (/mæm/ in IPA).

How do you use “mam” in a sentence?

Here is “mam” used in a sentence: “He rang his mam every Sunday evening.”

What part of speech is “mam”?

“Mam” is a noun.

Is “mam” a common word?

“Mam” is an uncommon word in modern English.