erpat

Erpat is a slang term used in the Philippines to refer to one's father or to an older man perceived as a father figure. It is a casual, affectionate, or humorous expression that has become part of everyday speech, especially among younger speakers and in online communities. The term is informal and is not typically used in formal writing or professional contexts.

Etymology and usage: Erpat is widely understood as a phonetic adaptation of the English word “father,” integrated into Filipino phonology and slang. Over time it has gained recognition across various Filipino-speaking communities and is commonly encountered in conversations, memes, and popular culture. It can refer to one’s own father or to an older man who is treated as a father figure, and it is often used in a friendly or playful tone.

Regional and social variation: While related to more formal terms like tatay (dad) and nanay (mom), erpat tends to be more informal and colloquial. Its usage is prevalent in urban and online contexts and can convey warmth, irony, or teasing depending on the relationship between speakers and the context in which it is used. As with many slang terms, tone and setting influence how it is received.

In contemporary Filipino language, erpat reflects the dynamic nature of family-related honorifics and everyday speech. It coexists with traditional terms and is part of the broader spectrum of casual address used in informal communication across the country.