In German
Oma
Meaning: grandma
Formal or informal? “Oma” is the everyday word. The formal term is “Großmutter”, used in writing and official forms.
Example sentences
MeineOmawohntinHamburg.
My grandma lives in Hamburg.
Oma,erzählstdumireineGeschichte?
Grandma, will you tell me a story?
AmWochenendebesucheichOma.
At the weekend I visit Grandma.
Grammar note
“Die Oma” is feminine and a noun, so it's always capitalised. With a possessive it's “meine Oma”.
Common mistake
Write “Oma” with a capital O. Nouns are always capitalised in German, even family words.
Quick check
Which is the everyday German word for grandma?
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Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
What is the formal word for grandma?
“Großmutter”, used in official or written contexts.
How do children usually address their grandmother?
“Oma” or “Omi”, the affectionate form.