Understanding the words for family members and relationships in Croatian is an essential part of mastering the language. Whether you are visiting Croatia or just want to converse with Croatian speakers, having these vocabularies in your linguistic arsenal helps you navigate social settings with greater ease. Let’s dive into some of the most commonly used terms for family members in Croatian.

Majka means “mother” in Croatian. This is probably one of the first words related to family that one learns when studying the language.
Moja majka je jako ljubazna osoba.

Otac stands for “father.” It’s a straightforward and commonly used term that is important to know.
Moj otac svaki dan ide na posao ujutro.

Baka is the word for “grandmother.” Grandmothers hold a special place in Croatian families, often associated with warmth and comfort.
Moja baka kuha najbolje kolače.

Djed translates to “grandfather.” It is another term of endearment and respect within the family unit.
Moj djed voli pricati priče iz svoje mladosti.

Brat means “brother.” In Croatia, as in many cultures, the bond between siblings is significant and often lifelong.
Moj brat i ja idemo u školu zajedno.

Sestra is the word for “sister.” Sisters, whether older or younger, are cherished companions and confidants in Croatian families.
Moja sestra završava fakultet ove godine.

Suprug translates to “husband.” This term is key in discussing marital relationships.
Moj suprug radi kao inženjer.

Supruga is the term for “wife.” It’s counterpart to suprug and is just as widely used.
Moja supruga voli vrtlariti.

Sin stands for “son.” Sons are often a central topic of conversation, particularly in family discussions.
Naš sin upravo uči voziti bicikl.

Kći or Kćerka means “daughter.” These words can be used interchangeably to talk about female children, and they are pronounced slightly differently.
Imamo dvije kćeri, a obje su studentice.

Unuk is the word for “grandson.” It’s a term of affection and pride for many Croatian grandparents.
Naš unuk je prvi put rekao ‘baka’!

Unuka translates to “granddaughter.” The bond between a granddaughter and her grandparents is often a tender subject in conversation.
Naša unuka dolazi iz škole nasmijana svaki dan.

Nećak stands for “nephew.” This word is handy when discussing the children of siblings.
Nećak mi dolazi u posjet ovaj vikend.

Nećakinja means “niece.” It is as equally significant as the term for nephew in a family context.
Moja nećakinja ima prekrasnu crvenu kosu.

Tetka is the term for “aunt.” Aunts often play a pivotal role in the upbringing and care of children within Croatian families.
Tetka me naučila kako se pleše samba.

Stric refers to “uncle.” The word is frequently used when talking about male relatives who are siblings to one’s parents.
Stric mi je poklonio svoju staru gitaru.

By familiarizing yourself with these Croatian words for family members and relationships, you’ll be better equipped to engage with native speakers, share stories about your own family, and comprehend Croatian culture more intimately. Watch as your connections grow stronger and your conversations become more enriched with the inclusion of these familial terms. Remember, knowing these terms can also serve as a bridge to learning more about someone’s background and personal history while speaking Croatian.