Grandma Nicknames: Choosing the Best One for You
Choosing your grandmother name feels overwhelming when you're facing 30+ years with this identity. Here's how to find the perfect fit—even if parents have opinions or the "other grandma" wants your first choice.
Updated January, 2026
When my first grandchild was on the way, everyone asked the same questions: "When's the baby due?" followed immediately by "What do you want to be called?" That second question sent me down a rabbit hole of grandmother names that ranged from traditional (Grandma, Nana) to truly bizarre (Grandiose, Gummy, NotherMother). I tried on Gran for six months before admitting it felt like I was calling someone else. Eventually, I landed on DeeDee—the nickname two generations of small family members had always used. The journey taught me that choosing your grandmother name isn't just about finding something cute; it's about finding what fits your identity and your family's dynamics.
Why your grandmother name matters
Your grandmother name becomes part of your identity for decades. It's how you'll answer to at school events, how you'll sign birthday cards, and how your grandchild will think of you. But keep in mind that the name you choose affects more than just you.
Some parents have strong opinions about what their children should call grandparents. They might want to honor a cultural tradition, avoid confusion with the other grandmother, or simply prefer certain names over others. As I explore in "Who Picks Grandparent Nicknames?," navigating these preferences requires clear communication and respect for parents' wishes—after all, your son-in-law is going to have to say your name to your grandchild hundreds of times.
And if you're worried about the "other grandmother" claiming your preferred name? Think about it: children can navigate having two "Nanas" or two "Grandmas" just as easily as they manage having two friends named Jackson. It's rarely the problem we imagine it will be.
Choosing Grandmother AND Grandfather Names Together?
Many grandparent couples coordinate their nicknames to create a matched set (Mimi & Papa, Nana & Granddad) or choose names that complement each other's style.
Looking for grandfather name ideas? Check out Grandparent Nicknames: Beyond Grandma & Grandpa for grandfather options, cultural names from around the world, and tips for choosing as a couple.
How to choose your grandmother name
Consider these factors before committing:
Your cultural heritage: If you have strong cultural ties, traditional names (Nonna, Oma, YiaYia, Abuela) often feel right. My husband's Greek heritage made YiaYia appealing, but that name was already claimed by his still-living mother.
What feels authentic to you: My friend Sarah chose "Grammy" because it reminded her of her beloved grandmother, while another friend went with "GiGi" because it matched her fun-loving personality. The name should feel like you.
What parents prefer: Have this conversation early. Some parents want formal names (Grandmother, Grandma), while others embrace creative options. Knowing their preferences saves awkward conversations later.
What your grandchild can actually say: Many carefully chosen names get transformed by toddler tongues anyway. "Grandma Catherine" became "Gamma Cat" in one family I know. Be flexible—sometimes the best names emerge naturally. If you aren’t ready for your choice to be modified by your grandchild, go with something easy to pronounce, like Mimi.
Test it out loud: Say it aloud multiple times. Sign a card with it. Introduce yourself with it. Does it still feel right after the tenth time?
Grandmother Names by Style
Here are popular options organized to help you find the perfect fit. Download the complete list of 200+ grandmother names plus our decision-making guide for even more options.
Traditional Grandma Names
Grandma
Grandmother
Nana
Nanna
Gran
Granny
Grammy
Gram
Nan
Nanny
Meemaw
Mawmaw
Unique Grandma Names
Dally
Lola
Coco
ZaZa
Gaga
Ama
Amba
Vivi
Tutu
Bibi
Mema
Momo
Cute Grandma Names
Lovey
Honey
Sugar
Bella
Belle
Birdie
BonBon
Sweetie
Meme
Lala
Cece
Kiki
Young Grandma Names
Glammy
G-Ma
Go-Go
Gigi
Mimi
Coco
Fancy
Lola
Glamma
G
Pippy
Grandma + First Name Combinations
Grandma Sue
Nana Jane
Grammy Rose
Mimi Lynn
Gigi Marie
Personal Nicknames for Grandma
(Like my DeeDee!) Use your existing family nickname, first initial (like "Gee" for Geraldine), shortened version of your name, or a name grandchildren naturally create for you.
When the grandma name you choose doesn't stick
Keep in mind, you have time to figure this out. Babies don't connect names to people until many months after birth. My friend Janet started as "Nana," switched to "Grammy" at six months, and finally settled on "Gram" when her grandson started talking. Another grandmother chose "Abuela" but her granddaughter said "Bebe" instead—and now the whole family uses it.
The name your grandchild actually uses may be different from what you planned. And that's perfectly okay. What matters most isn't the specific name, but the relationship you build with your grandchild and the support you provide to their parents.
Getting ready for your new role
Choosing your grandmother name is just one small part of preparing for this important role. Understanding how to support new parents, navigate changing family dynamics, and build strong relationships with both your adult children and grandchildren requires thoughtful preparation.
That's why I created New Grandparent Essentials—a comprehensive guide covering everything from communicating effectively with parents to understanding modern parenting practices. It helps you move beyond the fun questions (like choosing your name) to the crucial questions that shape your success as a grandparent.
The bottom line on grandmother names
Your grandmother name is personal, meaningful, and—fortunately—not set in stone. Whether you choose a traditional name that honors your heritage, a playful modern option that reflects your personality, or simply let your grandchild create one for you, what matters most is the love and support behind it.
Download our complete list of 150+ grandmother names plus the decision guide to find the perfect fit for your family.
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