nana nap
noun · casual
A short sleep during the day, usually in the afternoon.
How Aussies use it
- I had a nana nap after lunch.
- I'm so tired, I need a nana nap.
How to pronounce ‘nana nap’
Say it like this: NAH-nuh nap
‘nana nap’ in a conversation
Liam: Why didn't you answer my call?
Sophie: Sorry, I was having a nana nap on the couch.
Good to know
A warm, joking phrase. 'Nana' means grandma, so it's the kind of little nap a grandparent might have, but anyone can have one.
Where you'll hear ‘nana nap’
You'll hear 'nana nap' at home, at work on a Monday and between friends who are tired after a busy week. People often say it with a smile on a lazy weekend afternoon.
How to reply or use it yourself
If someone says they had a nana nap, they just mean a short daytime sleep, so you can say 'Lucky you!' Use it yourself when you want a little rest: 'I'm off for a nana nap.'
More examples
- The baby slept, so I had a nana nap too.
- After the long drive, Dad had a nana nap in his chair.
- A quick nana nap and I'll be ready for tonight.
🎧 Recorded with Australian AI voices (Bec and Davo from our Listening Room), so you hear a natural Aussie accent on every device.
A common mistake
It isn't rude about grandmothers. It's a fun, affectionate phrase.
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use a short nap instead.
Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.
Fill the gap
Which word goes in the gap?
I was up early, so I had a ___ ___ after lunch.
Show the answer
nana nap
Quick check
What does ‘nana nap’ mean?
- A short sleep during the day, usually in the afternoon.
- A present; a gift.
- Everything is fine; don't worry.
Show the answer
A. A short sleep during the day, usually in the afternoon.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'nana nap' mean in Australia?
A short sleep during the day, usually in the afternoon. A warm, joking phrase. 'Nana' means grandma, so it's the kind of little nap a grandparent might have, but anyone can have one.
Can I say 'nana nap' at work?
With workmates, yes. 'nana nap' is fine in a chat at smoko or a casual message, but don't use it with clients, in formal emails, or in the PTE and IELTS writing tests.
How do you pronounce 'nana nap'?
Say it like this: NAH-nuh nap. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.
When do Australians say 'nana nap'?
You'll hear 'nana nap' at home, at work on a Monday and between friends who are tired after a busy week. People often say it with a smile on a lazy weekend afternoon.