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Mammies Meaning in English

word · lemma: mammy

ˈmæmiz
MAM-eez
mˈæmɪz
mam-IZ

Definition

'Mammies' is the plural of 'mammy,' which is an old-fashioned or regional word for 'mother' or, in the US historical context, a Black woman who cared for white children during slavery and segregation. It is often seen as outdated or offensive today.

Usage & Nuances

'Mammy' is a dated and sometimes offensive term due to its association with stereotypes and American slavery. In Ireland and some regions, it is an affectionate term for mother but less common now. Avoid using it in modern American English except when discussing history or literature.

Example Sentences

Many old movies show mammies taking care of children.

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The word mammies is not used much anymore.

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Some books describe the lives of mammies in the past.

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It's important to understand why the image of mammies is controversial today.

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Growing up in Ireland, some people called their mothers mammies, but that's rare now.

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When discussing history, teachers sometimes explain who the mammies were in the southern U.S.

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