While traditional names like “Grandma” and “Grandad” may be familiar, the names chosen for grandparents across the UK are changing.

In a survey of over 2,000 UK adults, Legal & General explored the most common grandparent names in the UK and the reasons behind them. The survey found that 47% of Brits favoured “Grandad” for male grandparents, while 27% of Brits chose “Grandma” as the most popular name for female grandparents. Younger generations, however, are increasingly opting for names like “Nana” and “Pops,” reflecting a shift towards non-traditional titles.

Key findings from Wales found:

In Wales, “Grandad” is the most popular name for male grandparents, with 22% of respondents choosing it, followed by “Grampy” and “Bampi,” both at 10%.

The most popular names for female grandparents are “Nan,” “Nanna,” and “Nanny,” each chosen by 21% of respondents, with “Grandma” and “Granny” following at 14%.

For Welsh respondents, 40% chose their grandparent name due to family tradition, 21% selected it themselves, and 10% had it suggested by family or friends.

For female grandparents, ‘Grandma’ leads as the most popular name across the UK, chosen by 27% of respondents. The highest usage is among Gen Z, with 31% favouring ‘Grandma’.

There are plenty of regional differences when it comes to naming; in Scotland, for instance, 32% prefer ‘Gran,’ whilst in the West Midlands, ‘Nan’ (29%) is the name of choice. ‘Granny’ was also the standout naming choice for 48% of respondents in Belfast and, surprisingly, the most favoured name for 35–44-year-olds

Gender also plays a significant role, with 19% of women opting for ‘Nanny,’ compared to only 9% of men; however, ‘Grandma’ is still the most popular name for both males and females, with Nan the second most popular term for both.

https://www.legalandgeneral.com/insurance/over-50-life-insurance/grandparent-names/