big mama

noun

, (often initial capital letters)

1. a man's sweetheart, girlfriend, or wife.
2. a woman regarded as the head of a family.
3. the female founder or a leading female member of a company, organization, movement, etc.
4. Chiefly Southern U.S. grandmother.

Word History and Origins

Origin of big mama¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

Big Mama Thornton, Etta James and Albert Collins were just a few of the blues greats who frequently played at the Belly Up during the disco era.

From Los Angeles Times

"She was Big Mama; I didn't really understand the world. I would explain what my problem was and Big Mama would deal with it for me."

From BBC

Mr. Pesce explained that, with its suggestion of a ball and chain, what was variously referred to as La Mamma, Big Mama, Donna, and the Up chair portrayed the subjugation of women.

From New York Times

After moving into their apartments, Big Mama, Top Shelf, and other former residents of the homeless encampment find life indoors difficult.

From Los Angeles Times

Mendenhall — an Imperial Courts resident now called “Big Mama” who was called “Sister” when she was a gang member — says the situation in the projects is is not as chaotic as it appears from the outside.

From Los Angeles Times