Pronunciation: [mˈamə] (IPA) 
The word "mamma" is a variant of the word "mama," which is commonly used to refer to one's mother. The spelling of "mamma" is influenced by the Italian word for mother, "mamma," and often used in British English. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈmæmə/, which represents the three distinct sounds in the word - "m" (/m/), "a" (/æ/), and "m" again (/m/). Overall, the word "mamma" is a unique spelling of the familiar word "mama."
Mamma, noun:
1. Informal term for mother; a familiar or affectionate way of referring to one's mother. It is derived from the word "mother" and is commonly used by children or in a casual, endearing manner within families and close relationships.
2. In anatomy, mamma refers to the human breast or mammary gland, especially in reference to a woman's breast. It is used both in medical and informal contexts to denote the organ responsible for breastfeeding and milk production in females.
3. Mamma may also refer to a small projection or nipple-like structure, particularly in certain plants and fungi. These protuberances are generally associated with reproductive structures and serve as a point of attachment or development for seeds or spores.
4. It can also be used to describe a well-rounded, plump, or fleshy part of an object or organism, resembling the shape of a human breast. This usage is often seen in descriptive contexts, such as in photography, art, or culinary descriptions.
Overall, the term "mamma" primarily refers to the informal version of "mother" and the anatomical structures associated with breasts or reproductive organs. However, its usage can vary depending on the context, such as in informal conversations, scientific discussions, or artistic descriptions.
• In med., a nipple; a teat; a breast.
• A familiar word for mother used by all ranks above the lowest-often contracted into mam, or ma.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "mamma" originated from the Latin term "mamma", which means "breast" or "teat". In Latin, "mamma" was derived from the Greek word "mastos", which also means "breast". Eventually, the term "mamma" evolved and spread into many different languages, including English, where it referred to a mother or female caregiver.
