grannies: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Informal
Quick answer
What does “grannies” mean?
An informal and affectionate or familiar term for one's grandmothers.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An informal and affectionate or familiar term for one's grandmothers; the plural form of 'granny'.
Can refer to a group of elderly women collectively, especially in a friendly or informal context. In knitting, 'granny squares' are small, traditionally patterned squares often crocheted, evoking a traditional craft style.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both use 'granny' and 'grannies' similarly. 'Nana' and 'Nan' are common UK alternatives, while 'Grandma' is slightly more common in formal US contexts, though 'Granny' is widely understood.
Connotations
In both, it implies warmth and familiarity. In some Southern US contexts, 'Granny' can have a rustic or country connotation. In the UK, it's a very common, neutral-affectionate term.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in UK English as a primary term; in the US, 'Grandma' is more frequent as the default, but 'Granny' is still very common.
Grammar
How to Use “grannies” in a Sentence
Our grannies used to tell us stories.The grannies meet for tea every Thursday.I'm visiting both grannies this weekend.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “grannies” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- She prefers a granny-style cardigan.
- They live in a granny annexe at the back.
American English
- She wore granny glasses.
- He's driving a granny-spec sedan with all the safety features.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Only in sociological or demographic studies discussing family structures or elderly care.
Everyday
The primary context—used in family conversations, storytelling, and informal social settings.
Technical
Not used, except potentially in specific craft (knitting/crochet) instructions for 'granny squares'.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “grannies”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “grannies”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “grannies”
- Misspelling as 'grannys' (incorrect—the correct plural is 'grannies').
- Using in formal letters or introductions (e.g., 'Let me introduce my grannies' sounds childish; prefer 'grandmothers').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an informal, affectionate term. Use 'grandmothers' in formal contexts.
'Granny' is slightly more informal and often more affectionate or traditional-sounding than 'grandma', which is a very common standard term. The choice is often based on family preference.
Yes, but carefully. It can be used affectionately within a close community (e.g., 'the grannies at the bingo hall'), but used towards strangers it could be considered patronising or disrespectful.
It is a classic crochet motif, usually square and made in rounds, often using multiple colours. It is associated with traditional, homely crafts.
An informal and affectionate or familiar term for one's grandmothers.
Grannies: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡræniz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡræniz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Told you so! What did I tell you? Your granny could have seen that coming! (UK, expressing something was very obvious)”
- “knit a granny square (a specific crochet pattern)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'Granny' + the plural 's' sound like 'annies' — Picture your 'grannies' (plural) sitting with their friend 'Annie'.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SOURCE OF WARMTH/TRADITION (e.g., 'grannies' wisdom', 'grannies' recipes'). A SYMBOL OF SLOWNESS/CAUTION (e.g., 'driving like a couple of grannies').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'grannies' LEAST appropriate?