Becoming a grandparent is an exciting milestone, and one of the first big decisions is choosing the perfect grandparent name. Whether you want a traditional title, something playful and fun, or a unique and trendy alternative, there’s a grandparent name for every personality.
Below, we’ve rounded up grandparent names across different categories, complete with descriptions to help you find the perfect fit.
Tips to Choose Grandparent Names:
Here are some helpful tips for choosing the perfect grandparent name:
Consider Family Traditions
If your family has a history of using certain grandparent names (like Nana or Pop), you might want to continue the tradition.
Think About Pronunciation
Choose a name that’s easy for little ones to say, especially in their early years.
Match Your Personality
Are you a fun, youthful grandparent? Try something playful like Gigi or Pops. Prefer something elegant? Go with Grandmère or Sir.
Embrace Cultural Roots
If your family has a strong cultural background, consider a name from your heritage (like Nonna for Italian or Opa for German).
Get Input from the Parents
Since they’ll be teaching your grandparent name to their child, make sure they’re on board with it.
Let the Grandkids Decide
Sometimes, kids come up with their own adorable names, and they stick!
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Traditional Grandparent Names
These classic grandparent names have stood the test of time, offering warmth, familiarity, and a sense of history.
Grandma – A timeless and affectionate title that has been used for generations.
Grandpa – The perfect choice for a traditional and beloved grandfather.
Nana – A sweet and easy-to-say name that little ones love.
Papa – A strong yet gentle name that feels both classic and comforting.
Granny – A warm and homey name that brings to mind cozy hugs and homemade treats.
Gramps – A fun, no-nonsense name with a friendly ring to it.
Nanny – A charming and affectionate option with a soft, loving feel.
Poppy – A playful and endearing name for a fun-loving granddad.
Grandmother – A formal and elegant title that exudes wisdom and grace.
Grandfather – A respectful and dignified choice for a grandparent who values tradition.
MawMaw – A Southern-inspired variation that’s full of warmth and charm.
PawPaw – A friendly and easygoing name with a strong Southern feel.
Grammy – A cheerful and affectionate choice for a grandma who loves to spoil her grandkids.
Granddad – A classic name that carries both familiarity and warmth.
Mimi – A short and sweet name that feels modern while still being timeless.
Pop-Pop – A lively and affectionate name that’s full of energy.
Oma – A well-loved name for grandmothers in German-speaking countries.
Opa – A traditional German name for grandfathers, simple yet strong.
Mamaw – A charming Southern grandparent name that feels warm and inviting.
Papaw – A sweet and comforting name for a granddad who is always there with a big hug.
Cute & Playful Grandparent Names
If you’re a grandparent who loves to have fun, these playful grandparent names are the perfect fit.
Gigi – A stylish and sassy name for a grandmother who stays young at heart.
Poppy – A lively, cheerful name that’s perfect for an energetic grandpa.
Mimi – A chic and easy-to-say name that toddlers can pronounce early on.
Bubba – A fun, Southern-inspired name full of warmth and personality.
Tutu – A Hawaiian-inspired name that’s both adorable and unique.
Bebe – A cute and fashionable name for a grandmother with flair.
Doodle – A quirky and playful grandparent name that kids will love.
Lulu – A lighthearted and fun name that’s sweet and simple.
Pip – A short and snappy name with a bit of a mischievous edge.
Bobo – A fun-loving and youthful name for a grandfather with a big heart.
Cookie – A sweet and affectionate name for a grandma who loves baking.
Tinker – A whimsical name for a grandparent with a creative spirit.
Binky – A playful and unique name that stands out.
Coco – A trendy and stylish name that feels modern and fun.
Ducky – A cute and endearing name that grandkids will giggle over.
Gaga – A spunky and cool name with pop culture appeal.
Noni – A simple, loving name with an Italian flair.
Lovey – A warm and affectionate name that makes grandkids feel safe and cherished.
Peppy – A vibrant and energetic name for a grandparent who never slows down.
Zaza – A bold and fun name that’s both unique and memorable.
Cultural & International Grandparent Names
Celebrate heritage with these culturally inspired grandparent names from around the world.
Nonna – An Italian name for grandmother, full of warmth and tradition.
Nonno – The Italian counterpart for grandfather, carrying wisdom and strength.
Lola – A Filipino term for grandmother, simple yet full of love.
Lolo – A common and affectionate Filipino name for grandpa.
Ouma – A South African term for grandmother, often used in Afrikaans-speaking families.
Oupa – A well-loved South African name for grandfather.
Yaya – A Greek name for grandmother, vibrant and affectionate.
Pappou – A Greek name for grandfather, rich in tradition.
Bubbe – A Yiddish term for grandmother, full of history and love.
Zayde – A Yiddish name for grandpa, carrying warmth and familiarity.
Daadi – A Hindi name for a paternal grandmother, widely used in Indian families.
Daadu – A Hindi name for paternal grandfather, full of respect and love.
Nai Nai – A Mandarin Chinese term for paternal grandmother.
Ye Ye – A Mandarin Chinese term for paternal grandfather.
Halmoni – A Korean name for grandmother, deeply meaningful and traditional.
Haraboji – A Korean term for grandfather, carrying dignity and respect.
Tata – A commonly used grandparent name in Slavic and Latin American cultures.
Mormor – A Swedish name for maternal grandmother.
Farfar – A Swedish term for paternal grandfather.
Bestemor – A Norwegian name for grandmother, meaning “best mother.”
Modern & Trendy Grandparent Names
For today’s stylish and youthful grandparents, these modern grandparent names offer a fresh twist.
Gigi – A chic and trendy name that feels youthful and fun.
Pops – A short and cool alternative to Grandpa.
Mimi – A stylish name that’s easy for little ones to say.
Lala – A modern and whimsical name for a grandmother who loves to play.
Gaga – A spunky and fashionable choice, full of personality.
Glamma – For the glamorous grandma who stays stylish and fabulous.
Grandude – A hip and fun alternative for a laid-back grandfather.
Momo – A quirky and affectionate name with a modern edge.
Cece – A sleek and playful option for a stylish grandma.
Bix – A cool and unique name with a modern vibe.
JoJo – A fun and energetic name for an active grandparent.
Nini – A fresh and modern name with a soft, loving feel.
Zaza – A bold and trendy name that’s fun to say.
Rio – A cool, travel-inspired name for a globe-trotting grandparent.
Tata – A minimalist, stylish name used in many cultures.
Lulu – A youthful and fashionable name for a fun-loving grandma.
Boomer – A lighthearted, trendy name that embraces the baby boomer generation.
BeeBee – A cute and snappy name full of energy.
Pip – A playful and modern grandparent name with a quirky edge.
Zippy – Perfect for a grandparent who’s always on the go!
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Southern & Country Grandparent Names
Warm and charming grandparent names inspired by the Southern way of life.
Big Mama – A beloved Southern title for a wise and caring grandma.
Big Daddy – A classic, strong name for a respected grandfather.
Meemaw – A fun and affectionate name full of Southern charm.
Peepaw – A down-to-earth and friendly grandpa name.
Mamaw – A sweet and simple name, commonly used in the South.
Papaw – A warm and loving grandpa name with a Southern twang.
Honey – A soft and affectionate name, perfect for a grandma who spoils her grandkids.
Bubba – A fun and playful grandparent name with a country feel.
Sugie – Short for “Sugar,” an adorable nickname for a sweet grandma.
PawPaw – A comforting and traditional Southern grandpa name.
Lolly – A cute and playful name that pairs well with “Pop” for grandparent duos.
Dandy – A cheerful and fun name for a granddad who’s full of life.
Gigi Belle – A Southern twist on Gigi, adding a touch of elegance.
Hoss – A strong, cowboy-inspired name for a tough but loving granddad.
Doodle – A playful and affectionate grandparent name.
Bebe – A stylish and sweet name with Southern warmth.
MawMaw – A name full of love and familiarity, widely used in the South.
Pappy – A classic and warm name for a granddad.
Tater – A fun and quirky name for a grandparent who loves to cook.
Biscuit – A unique and adorable name inspired by Southern comfort food.
Unique & Quirky Grandparent Names
For those who want a grandparent name that truly stands out, these options are one-of-a-kind.
Bubbles – A fun and bubbly name for a joyful grandparent.
Zuzu – A playful and unique name that feels magical.
Pippy – A quirky and lighthearted grandparent name.
Moxie – A bold and confident name for a grandparent with spunk.
Gumball – A colorful and cheerful name for a grandparent who loves to have fun.
Fizzy – A sparkly and unique name full of energy.
Pogo – A lively and bouncy grandparent name.
Sparky – Perfect for a grandparent with a spark of mischief.
BoBo – A silly and affectionate name for a fun-loving granddad.
Dizzy – A quirky and lighthearted name that grandkids will giggle over.
Ziggy – A cool and unique name with a rockstar vibe.
Doodlebug – An affectionate name full of fun and love.
Toots – A playful and nostalgic name with a touch of humor.
Corky – A charmingly quirky name that stands out.
Froggy – A fun nature-inspired name for a grandparent who loves the outdoors.
Hobnob – A unique and delightful name with an old-fashioned twist.
BoomBoom – A lively and energetic grandparent name.
Pockets – Perfect for a grandparent who always has treats hidden away!
Snickers – A name full of laughter and sweetness.
Zesty – For a grandparent with a zest for life!
Celebrity-Inspired Grandparent Names
If you want a grandparent name with a touch of star power, take inspiration from famous grandparents.
Lola – Used by Kelly Ripa’s mom for a stylish and short grandparent name.
Gogo – Inspired by Kris Jenner’s chosen grandparent name.
Glammy – Goldie Hawn’s glamorous take on “Grammy.”
Papa Bear – A loving and protective name used by celebrities like Bruce Willis.
Lovey – Kris Jenner’s affectionate and modern grandparent name.
Honey – A sweet and simple name chosen by actress Susan Sarandon.
Zaza – A cool and quirky name inspired by rockstar grandparents.
Nana J – Inspired by Jane Fonda’s grandmother nickname.
Daddio – A retro-cool name used by some Hollywood granddads.
Momo – A stylish and modern grandparent name used by celebrity families.
Popsie – A playful and trendy take on “Pop.”
Mamie – A vintage yet fashionable name, used in old Hollywood.
Toto – A fun and easy-to-say name inspired by musical greats.
Dodie – A cute and affectionate celebrity-inspired grandparent name.
Boss – A confident and playful grandparent name for a family leader.
Cici – A trendy and modern take on “grandma.”
Lovie – A name that radiates warmth and affection.
Tink – Inspired by Tinkerbell, perfect for a magical grandparent.
Gumpa – A celebrity-inspired spin on Grandpa.
Bibi – A stylish and easy-to-say grandparent name.
Nature-Inspired Grandparent Names
For grandparents who love the great outdoors, these nature-inspired grandparent names bring a touch of earthiness, beauty, and whimsy.
Willow – A graceful and elegant name inspired by the strong yet flexible tree.
River – A peaceful and free-spirited name, perfect for an adventurous grandparent.
Sunny – A bright and cheerful name for a grandparent who brings warmth to their grandkids’ lives.
Pebbles – A playful and cute name, perfect for a fun-loving grandparent.
Fern – A soft and nature-loving name inspired by the lush greenery of the forest.
Bear – A strong yet cuddly grandparent name that symbolizes protection and warmth.
Rosey – A floral-inspired grandparent name that’s both classic and charming.
Leafy – A fun and whimsical name for a grandparent who loves nature walks.
Cedar – A strong, earthy name that carries wisdom and resilience.
Daisy – A fresh and cheerful grandparent name that radiates joy.
Sage – A wise and grounding name with a peaceful presence.
Breeze – A light and airy name for a free-spirited grandparent.
Maple – A sweet and sturdy name inspired by the beloved tree.
Mossy – A quirky and nature-loving grandparent name.
Petal – A delicate and beautiful name for a gentle grandparent.
Thistle – A unique and rugged name for a grandparent with a strong personality.
Aspen – A stylish and modern name inspired by the majestic tree.
Dewey – A fresh and youthful name reminiscent of early morning dewdrops.
Clover – A lucky and nature-inspired grandparent name.
Sky – A calming and limitless name, perfect for a grandparent with a dreamy spirit.
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Final Thoughts
Choosing a grandparent name is a personal and exciting decision. Whether you prefer something classic, playful, cultural, trendy, or unique, there’s a name that fits your personality and family dynamic. No matter what you choose, the most important thing is the love and bond you share with your grandkids.
How do I choose the right grandparent name?
Consider your personality, cultural background, and what feels comfortable to you. Some grandparents prefer traditional names, while others like something unique or playful.
What if my grandkids end up calling me something different?
That’s totally normal! Many grandparent names evolve naturally based on what little ones can pronounce. Sometimes the best names are the ones grandkids make up themselves.
Can grandparents in the same family have different names?
Absolutely! Many families have multiple sets of grandparents, so having unique names helps avoid confusion.