Mother in Spanish
The Spanish word for 'mother' is 'madre', pronounced MAH-dreh (IPA: /ˈmadɾe/). It is an A1-level feminine noun (plural: madres).
Pronunciation: MAH-dreh
| Spanish | madre |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | MAH-dreh · /ˈmadɾe/ |
| Part of speech | noun (feminine) |
| Plural | madres |
| Level | A1 (beginner-friendly) |
Example Sentences with 'madre'
- Mi madre se llama Carmen.
My mother's name is Carmen. - Su madre trabaja en un hospital.
Her mother works in a hospital. - La madre de Juan prepara una cena deliciosa.
Juan's mother is preparing a delicious dinner. - Quiero mucho a mi madre.
I love my mother very much.
Common Phrases with 'madre'
- ¡Madre mía!
Oh my goodness! - madre soltera
single mother
How to Use 'madre'
In everyday speech 'mamá' is warmer and more common than 'madre', which can sound formal when addressing her directly. Possessives are normal with family: 'mi madre', 'tu madre'.
Regional note: In Mexico, 'madre' appears in a huge range of slang, much of it vulgar, so 'mamá' is the safe everyday choice there.
Related Vocabulary
Keep going: review Spanish vocabulary guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
'Mother' in Spanish is 'madre', pronounced MAH-dreh.
It is spelled m-a-d-r-e.
'Madre' is feminine: you say 'la madre'.
The plural of 'madre' is 'madres'.
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