Cuma Rosie?

[skiptonr@hotmail.com]

My family refers to certain people with the title "cuma" (phonetic spelling) or "cumba". Cuma Rosie, Cuma Mike, etc. I thought it meant cousin but when I translate cousin I get cugina (o). One cousin thought it meant godmother/father and another said it was a non-family member who was very good friends. Anyone know what this word is and what it means?

Many thanks!

[AngelaGrace56]

Both your cousins are correct. The actual words are Comara and Comparo, often shortened to "Coma" and "Compa". The are generally used to address close friends of the family, like you say, and a Godmother (Comara) and a Godfather (Comparo). It's how I have always addressed my Godparents. I've also heard the words been used to address Bridesmaids and Groomsmen, and also "Sponsors" at Confirmation. I don't know about other places in Italia, but these words were (and possibily still are) used by those from Naples and the region of Basilicata. Where are your family from?

Angela

[skiptonr@hotmail.com]

Hi Angela, thanks so much. My family is from two different provinces in Abruzzo, Teramo and ‎L'Aquila‎.

Have a great day! Rick

[AngelaGrace56]

Hi Angela, thanks so much. My family is from two different provinces in Abruzzo, Teramo and ‎L'Aquila‎.

Have a great day! Rick

That makes sense.

Happy to help.

Angela