what does baba mean

The word "baba" has several meanings depending on the cultural and linguistic context. Primarily, "baba" means "father" or a respectful term for an older man across many languages including Persian, Turkish, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu, and Yoruba. It is also used as an honorific to address wise men, religious leaders, and elders in various cultures. Additionally, in many Slavic languages, "baba" means "grandmother" or "old woman." In some contexts, it refers to a kind of sponge cake soaked in rum-flavored syrup. Also, in informal German, "baba" can be a childish way to say "goodbye".