Grandpa names are special titles that stick for a lifetime. They represent love, wisdom, and the unique bond between generations. You might want a traditional title that honors your heritage, or perhaps you need a silly nickname for a grandpa who is young at heart.
We compiled a massive list of options to help you find the perfect fit. From global translations to tough-guy nicknames, here are the best names for Grandpa.
48 Traditional Names for Grandpa
These classic titles are perfect for a grandfather who values history and heritage.
- Abuelito – In Spanish, this means “little grandfather” and is a term of deep affection.
- Afi – This is the standard Icelandic word for grandfather.
- Ataahua – A Māori term that translates to “beautiful” or “pleasant,” sometimes used honorifically.
- Athair Críonna – A formal Irish Gaelic phrase meaning “wise father.”
- Dedushka – The Russian word for grandfather (often shortened to Deda).
- Dada Jaan – An Urdu title used specifically for a paternal grandfather.
- Daideó – An Irish Gaelic term that sounds similar to “Daddy.”
- Dede – The Turkish title for a grandfather who passes down cultural values.
- Dziadzia – A Polish term for a grandpa who shares traditions and smiles.
- Dziadzio – An alternative Polish spelling often used in American-Polish families.
- Farfar – The Swedish distinction for a father’s father.
- Gramps – A classic, playful nickname for a grandpa with a mischievous side.
- Granda – A friendly, casual version used widely in Scotland and Ireland.
- Grandad – An endearing, common term for a respected family figure.
- Grandpa – The timeless English title that evokes warmth and wisdom.
- Grandpappy – A traditional, folksy title often heard in the Southern US.
- Grandpaw – A down-to-earth spelling that suggests a welcoming personality.
- Grand-père – The formal French word, perfect for a distinguished patriarch.
- Grandpop – A lively name for a grandpa who brings energy to family gatherings.
- Grossvater – The German word representing tradition, hard work, and family.
- Gunga – A Swahili term for a wise elder who creates and shares stories.
- Gung Gung – The Cantonese term specifically for a maternal grandfather.
- Halabeoji – The formal Korean word for grandfather, symbolizing respect.
- Haraboji – An alternative romanization of the Korean term for grandpa.
- Jido – An Arabic title signifying a patriarch with a strong moral code.
- Kakek – The Indonesian word for a grandfather who provides guidance.
- Koroua – A Māori term for an elderly man or grandfather.
- Lao ye – The Mandarin Chinese title for a maternal grandfather.
- L’avi – The Catalan word for grandfather.
- Lolo – The primary term for grandpa used in the Philippines.
- Morfar – The Swedish distinction for a mother’s father.
- Nene – A Hawaiian term meaning “ancestor” or elder with a calming presence.
- Ojiisan – The Japanese word for grandfather or an elderly gentleman.
- Opa – A popular German and Dutch nickname that is easy for toddlers to say.
- Opappi – An affectionate Italian-American variation combining “Opa” and “Papi.”
- Papi – A term of endearment for fathers and grandfathers in Latin cultures.
- Pappou – The Greek word for grandfather, carrying a strong sense of tradition.
- Pappous – A variation of the Greek title.
- Pop – Short, punchy, and used casually across many English-speaking cultures.
- Saba – The Hebrew word for grandpa, common in Jewish families.
- Seanathair – The literal Scottish Gaelic translation for “old father.”
- Seedo – An Arabic term for grandpa often heard in Levantine dialects.
- Tipuna – A Māori variation referring to an ancestor or grandparent.
- Tupuna – The Māori word representing an elder connected to ancestral knowledge.
- Wai gong – The Mandarin term for a maternal grandfather.
- Wai zu fu – A more formal Mandarin title for a maternal grandfather.
- Zaydeh – A Yiddish term emphasizing the grandfather’s cherished role.
- Zu fu – The formal Mandarin term for a paternal grandfather.
40 Cute Grandpa Names
If he is sweet, charming, and loves to spoil the grandkids, try one of these adorable options.
- Abba – While it means “Father” in Hebrew, many grandkids use it for grandpa too.
- Bubba – A Southern staple, perfect for a friendly, easy-going grandpa.
- Bubby – An affectionate nickname often used in Jewish families.
- Buddy – The ideal choice for a grandpa who acts more like a best friend.
- Dada – In Hindi, this specifically refers to a paternal grandfather.
- Dandy – A charming name for a well-dressed elder with sophistication.
- Dodo – A quirky nickname for a grandpa with a unique sense of humor.
- Doodle – A whimsical name for a creative or artistic grandfather.
- Gamps – A shortened, toddler-friendly version of Gramps.
- Gee-Gee – An easy-to-pronounce doubling of the letter G.
- Gong Gong – A cute iteration of the Chinese term for maternal grandpa.
- G-Daddy – A fun, modern mix of “Grandpa” and “Daddy.”
- Grandy – Suited for a “grand” man whom his grandchildren adore.
- Grandykins – A delightful, sugary nickname combining “Grandy” with “kin.”
- Gumpy – A playful tease for a grandpa who pretends to be grumpy.
- Jellybean – For a grandpa who is full of sugar and surprises.
- Jiji – The affectionate short form of Ojiisan in Japanese.
- Kip – A cool, youthful name for an active grandfather.
- Koro – The affectionate short form of the Māori word Koroua.
- Nana – In Hindi, this refers to a maternal grandpa (distinct from the English “Grandma”).
- Nonno – The Italian classic representing family, food, and togetherness.
- Oupa – The Afrikaans word for grandpa, reflecting a close-knit family bond.
- Pa – Simple, classic, and conveys a close relationship.
- Pappy – A charming, rustic title used for fathers and grandpas alike.
- Paw – A shortened version of PawPaw with Southern charm.
- Pawpaw – A sweet, repetitive name that babies find easy to say.
- Peepaw – A popular Southern US nickname for a beloved elder.
- Pépé – The affectionate French term for grandpa (short for Papy).
- Popcorn – A silly title for a grandpa who loves movie nights and snacks.
- Popo – A cute, rhythmic name often used in Chinese or Hawaiian families.
- Poppie – The Dutch diminutive for a fun, playful grandfather.
- Pop-Pop – A classic American nickname made famous by varying TV shows.
- Popsi – A cutesy variation that adds a little sweetness to “Pops.”
- Popsicle – A humorous extension of Pops, perfect for a grandpa with a cool attitude.
- Shanti – Sanskrit for “peace,” fitting for a calm, zen grandfather.
- Snickerdoodle – For a grandpa who is as delightful as a cinnamon cookie.
- Snickers – A catchy nickname for a grandpa who loves to laugh (or eat candy).
- Sofu – The formal Japanese term for one’s own grandfather.
- Vovô – The Portuguese word for grandpa, often shortened to just “Vô.”
- Yéyé – A common, informal Chinese name for a paternal grandfather.
32 Badass Nicknames for Grandpa
If your dad is tough, cool, or rides a motorcycle, he needs a name that matches his grit.
- Ace – For a grandpa who is a master in his field and a pro at life.
- Bear – Implies he is big, strong, protective, and gives great hugs.
- Big Daddy – For the grandpa with a large personality who commands the room.
- Boppa – A unique, punchy twist on the standard Papa.
- Buzz – An energetic handle for a grandpa who never sits still.
- Captain – Perfect for a natural leader or a boating enthusiast.
- Gaffer – British slang for a boss or foreman; implies he runs the show.
- G-pa – A hip abbreviation that makes grandpa sound like a rapper.
- G-Pop – A modern twist for grandfathers who embrace current trends.
- Grampster – Combines “Grandpa” and “Hipster” for the stylish elder.
- Grampy – A friendly, approachable variation that still sounds masculine.
- Grandmister – A rare, somewhat formal title for a distinguished gentleman.
- Grand Sire – Sounds regal and dignified, like the head of a dynasty.
- Grizzle – A funny, affectionate nickname for a grandpa with a beard or gruff voice.
- Gunner – Represents bravery and precision; great for military vets.
- Hawk – For the grandfather who sees everything and watches over the flock.
- Ironman – implys he is strong, enduring, and practically unbreakable.
- Maverick – For the independent grandpa who does things his own way.
- Old Chap – A cheeky British-style nickname for your favorite guy.
- Papa Cool – A trendy choice that lets everyone know he hasn’t lost his edge.
- Paps – Short, slangy, and conveys an easy-going familiarity.
- P-Daddy – A unique, slightly humorous option for a cool grandpa.
- Popper – Energetic and fun, perfect for a grandpa who is always active.
- Poppit – A distinct Cajun-style name for someone who stands out.
- Pops – The ultimate casual nickname for the patriarch of the family.
- Rambo – For a grandpa who is tough as nails and loves action movies.
- Ranger – Evokes images of the outdoors, nature, and self-reliance.
- Sarge – Ideal for a disciplined grandpa who keeps the kids in line.
- Skip – A carefree name, often used for a captain or team leader.
- Tank – For the big, tough grandfather who is built like a linebacker.
- Zeus – A powerful name for the father of the gods (and the family).
- Zayde – A Yiddish classic that commands respect and love.








