What do I call my partner’s parents?

By the name they offer. Until then, the Hebrew is Ima and Abba of [partner], or first names. Do not start with adoni.

Hebrew for family: parents, in-laws, kids

The short answer

Family Hebrew is nicknames plus respect. Savta is not “Mrs.” Abba is not “sir.” Get the names right and the rest of the table relaxes.

Hebrew inflects to the speaker and the listener. Set both before you pick a verb.
baba is a translation tool, not a course. It gets the line right for the room you are in.

By baba TeamLast updated: September 11, 2026

אבא / אמא

Abba / Ima

These are the living words. Av and em are for forms and the Torah.

סבתא / סבא

Savta / Saba

Savta will feed you. That is the grammar.

מה שלומך?

Ma shlomech?

To an older man: ma shlomcha. This is the polite one.

Gender. shlomech (f) / shlomcha (m)

הילדים

Ha-yeladim

Mixed or boys. Girls only: ha-yeladot.

What do I call my partner’s parents?: By the name they offer. Until then, the Hebrew is Ima and Abba of [partner], or first names. Do not start with adoni.