Word of the day: 媽

媽 [ma]

媽媽 [ma-ma]

Date of first discovery by Dr Egg: April, 2008 (13 months old)

Definition: Generally the first word spoken by all babies across the world. Assumed to be referring to the maternal parent.

Usage Notes: Mami took this first word for granted. Daddy was immensely jealous for months when 爸爸 wasn't spoken until 12 months later.

媽咪 [ma-mi]

Date of first discovery by Dr Egg: March, 2009 (2 years old)

Definition: The first multi-syllable word spoken by EggEgg, after mimicking a neighbour.

Usage Notes: The pronunciation of this word can vary daily, sometimes leaning towards 蝦麵. Mami has to repeatedly made it clear that she does not sell prawn noodle.

媽咪啊 [ma-mi-a]

Date of first discovery by Dr Egg: May, 2009

Definition: An versatile interjection, often used during whinging, negotiation or pleading sessions.

Example:

(softly) 媽咪啊? Are you there, Mami?

(loudly) 媽咪啊! Help me here!

(pitifully) 媽咪啊! I am sorry. Can you let me out?

(screaming) 媽咪啊! 媽咪啊! 媽咪啊! I want, I want, I want.