The expression refers to the mother of one’s mother, or the maternal grandmother. In Spanish, “la mama” signifies “the mother,” and repeating it in the structure “la mama de la mama” literally translates to “the mother of the mother.” The phrase denotes a specific familial relationship within a family tree. For instance, if Maria’s mother is Elena, then Elena’s mother is Maria’s maternal grandmother, or “la mama de la mama” in this context.
Understanding kinship terms, particularly across languages, is crucial for accurate translation and interpretation in fields such as genealogy, anthropology, and legal contexts. This knowledge helps avoid miscommunication and ensures the precise conveyance of familial relationships. Historically, such terminology reflects cultural values and societal structures related to family lineage and heritage. The specific phrasing can also carry emotional or cultural significance within a particular community.