The Etymology of Mom and Dad

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The use of “mom” and “dad” as titles within a family strikes me as somewhat odd.

Yes, yes, I appreciate the cultural and historical significance of calling our parents by their family roles, but where did it all begin?

Let’s cast our minds back to previous eons, back when humans were first naming items in their existence: apple, rock, fire, lion, etc. Presumably those early men and women had unique names for themselves as well … the cave-dwelling equivalent of John, Mary, Eduardo, Juanita and more.

But why did they decide that using a title (like mom, dad, aunt, uncle, etc.) was more respectful than using the individual’s name? Would not have name use been easier and less confusing in group settings?

1 comment

  1. I’m not sure the origins of familial titles, but I know that languages evolve they aren’t created.

    Also, I wonder why we drink baby cow’s food and eat chicken menstration? Just saying. We give them good names now, but they are what they are.

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