Usage Note
Ninong is the standard Filipino term for a godfather, derived from the Spanish padrino via the diminutive form. Godparents in Filipino culture carry genuine social weight — they are expected to attend major life events, give gifts, and serve as mentors. Children address godparents by title as a sign of respect.
Examples
" Mabait ang Ninong ko. "
Natural Translation
My godfather is kind.
Literal Translation
Kind the godfather my.
" Nangako ang aking Ninong na tutulungan ako sa pag-aaral. "
Natural Translation
My godfather promised to help me with my studies.
Literal Translation
Promised the my godfather to help me in studying.
" Tuwing Pasko, dumadalaw kami sa aming Ninong para mangamusta at humingi ng basbas bago kami umuwi. "
Natural Translation
Every Christmas, we visit our godfather to greet him and ask for his blessing before we go home.
Literal Translation
Every Christmas, visiting we to-the our godfather to greet and ask of blessing before we go-home.
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