Ditch the Traditional and Embrace the New because Grandma and Grandpa just got a makeover!

Becoming a grandparent is one of life’s sweetest rewards. There’s just something magical about tiny arms wrapping around you and a little voice squealing your name. But who says you have to be called Grandma or Grandpa?

Those names are timeless, sure, but let’s be honest, they’ve also been around for centuries. These days, more and more fun-loving grandparents are choosing playful, modern, or totally unique names instead.

If you’re about to become a grandparent (or you already are), and you’re looking for a name that fits your personality, lifestyle, and maybe even your sense of humor then read on!

Let’s talk about ditching the old-school names and picking something that feels just right for you.

Why Go for a Cute or Fun Grandparent Name?

There’s no rule that says you have to be a “Grandma” or a “Grandpa.” In fact, a lot of grandparents these days are younger, more active, and way cooler than the gray-haired stereotypes we grew up with. You’re probably chasing toddlers around, doing yoga, working part-time, or traveling the world. So why not choose a name that matches your vibe?

And let’s be honest, hearing a toddler say “Mimi” or “Pop Pop” is just plain adorable. 

How to Choose Your Grandparent Name

Okay, so how do you actually pick a name? Here are a few things to think about before you decide:

1. Think About Your Style

Are you classy and traditional? Silly and playful? Outdoorsy? Glamorous? Choose a name that reflects who you are.

2. Try It Out Loud

Say it a few times. Imagine your grandchild running up to you yelling that name. Does it make you smile? Does it feel natural?

3. Keep it Easy to Say

Toddlers don’t have perfect pronunciation (and that’s part of the fun!). Go for something simple that little mouths can manage. Sometimes the best grandparent names come from a child’s mispronunciation!

4. Coordinate with the Other Grandparents

Avoid duplicates if you can, or embrace the differences! (One house can have a Grammy and a Nana; another might have a Pops and a Gramps.)

5. Be Open to Change

Even if you pick a name, your grandchild might come up with their own version, and it might stick forever. Honestly? That’s kind of the best part.

Popular and Up-to-Date Grandparent Names

These are the trendy, fun names that modern grandparents everywhere are embracing. They’re fresh, fun, and just a little outside the box!

Cute Grandma Names

• Mimi – Sweet and simple

• Gigi – Chic and stylish

• Lulu – Playful and a little sassy

• Nana – A classic that’s still going strong

• Grammy – A soft, loving twist on “Grandma”

• Bella – Italian for beautiful, fancy and fun!

• Lovey – Because being loved is your whole job 

• Oma – The German word for Grandma (and super trendy!)

• Glamma – For the glamorous grandma who loves her sparkle 

• Honey – Sweet as can be and totally unique

Fun Grandpa Names

• Pops – Cool and casual

• Papa – A classic with cozy vibes

• Poppy – Cute and cheerful

• G-Pa – The grandpa with swagger

• Gramps – Timeless with a rugged feel

• Big Daddy – For the fun grandpa who runs the show 

• Bubba – Southern charm and full of heart

• Boompa – Silly and full of personality

• Opa – The German version of Grandpa (and totally fun to say!)

• Chief – For the grandpa in charge of fun and games

Silly & Creative Grandparent Names

Sometimes, the best names come from the wild and wacky side of life. If you're the kind of grandparent who loves tickle fights, makes pancakes shaped like dinosaurs, and still does cannonballs in the pool, this list is for you!

• Cookie – For the grandma who always has treats

• Bubbles – For the fun grandparent who brings the party

• Tutu – Hawaiian for Grandma (and just so cute)

• Peachy – Sweet, sunny, and Southern-inspired

• Pippy & Pappy – A playful pair for grandparenting duos

• MoMo & PoPo – Super fun and easy for little ones

• Gogo – For the grandma who’s always on the move

• Zaza – Elegant and a little mysterious 

• BeeBee & DeeDee – Rhyming, charming, and totally lovable

• Rocky – Grandpa who’s strong and fun

Favorite Tried-and-True Names (With a Twist!)

Sometimes, you want to stick with the classics but still give them a little personal flair. These names are beloved for a reason, but you can always mix them up!

• Grandma → Grammy, Gramma, Gammy, G-Ma

• Grandpa → Grampy, Granda, Grandude, G-Dad

• Nana & Papa – Always sweet, always popular

• MawMaw & PawPaw – Southern charm at its finest

• Meemaw & Peepaw – Old-fashioned but making a comeback

What If the Grandkids Make Up Their Own Name?

Honestly? That’s one of the sweetest things that can happen. You might go in thinking, “I’m going to be Mimi,” and end up being called “Meemo” because your toddler grandchild made it up. And then suddenly, everyone in the family is calling you Meemo forever.

And you know what? It becomes your special name. 

Sometimes the most meaningful grandparent names are the ones that come straight from your grandchild’s little heart.

Grandparent Name Ideas for Couples

If you and your partner want a fun set of names, here are a few cute combos:

• Mimi & Papa

• Gigi & Gramps

• Lulu & PopPop

• Tutu & Opa

• Honey & Pops

• Glamma & Grandude

• Cookie & Chief

• Bibi & Babu

• Loli & Pop

• Lovey & Bubba

Mix and match until you find the perfect fit!

Most Popular Grandma Nicknames

1. Nana – the reigning favorite in many states

2. Grammy / Grammie – a soft, affectionate classic 

3. Granny / Grannie / Gran – timeless and sweet 

4. Nanny – simple and endearing 

5. Mamaw – regional favorite (especially Southern U.S.) 

6. Mawmaw – another warm Southern gem 

7. Mimi – charming and easy to say

8. Grandmother – traditional and formal

9. Memaw – sweet regional touch

10. Abuela / Abuelita – the Spanish classic, top choice in some states

Trending Grandma Nicknames

• Gigi

• Bibi

• Momo

• Gran

Most Popular Grandpa Nicknames

1. Papa – tops the grandfather list in many states 

2. Pop / Pop‑Pop – friendly, casual, and widespread 

3. Pawpaw / Papaw – a precious Southern favorite 

4. Granddad / Grandpa – traditional staples 

5. Grampy / Gramps – beloved and affectionate 

6. Poppy – playful and sweet 

7. Grandfather – formal and classic 

8. Abuelo / Abuelito – cherished Spanish-language choice

Trending Grandpa Nicknames

• Poppy (again, in trend list)

• Pops

• Papi

• G‑Pa

• Grandude

If you're choosing a grandparent name, start with what's popular: Nana or Papa are safe bets. But don't be afraid to go bold: Gigi or Grandude works too! Choose what feels fun, speaks your personality, and rolls off little tongues easily. What name feels just right for you?