informal term for grandmother
Shortened form of grandmother, from grand- + mother, informal usage from 20th century
This cozy abbreviation shows how family terms get streamlined over generations. From 'grandmother' to 'grandma' to 'gran' - each generation makes it a little more casual and affectionate!
Gran typically refers to grandmother; while not inherently biased, it's used predominantly for female grandparents, reflecting historical linguistic patterns where female family roles receive diminutive forms.
Consider gender-neutral alternatives like 'grandparent' or use 'gran' only when the gender identity of the person is confirmed and preferred.
["grandparent","abuela/abuelo (Spanish for both)","grandma/grandpa (explicit alternatives)"]
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