Puppa
Also spelled: Pupa, Poppa, Puppah
Meaning
An affectionate word for one's father, or for an older man regarded with respect and fondness. Warmer and more familiar than the plain English 'father'.
Examples
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“Mi puppa teach mi how fi fish.”
My father taught me how to fish.
'Fi' + verb expresses 'how to'.
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“Puppa deh a yaad?”
Is Dad at home?
No copula before the locative 'a yaad' (at home/yard).
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“Respec, big puppa, mi soon come.”
Respect, old man, I'll be there shortly.
'Big puppa' used respectfully to an elder man; 'soon come' means shortly.
Origin
From English 'papa/poppa', a reduplicated affectionate form; parallels similar terms in many West African and Caribbean speech communities.
How it's used
Everyday and affectionate. Also appears in the exclamation 'Puppa Jesus!' expressing shock. Can be used loosely for any respected older man.