pikkie

Pikkie is a common South African colloquial term, primarily used to refer to a young child or baby. It is derived from the Afrikaans word "pieknieks," meaning "little picnic," but its usage has broadened beyond this original meaning. The term is often used affectionately and is frequently employed by parents, grandparents, and caregivers to describe a small child.

The word "pikkie" can be applied to both boys and girls and is generally used for infants and toddlers, typically up to the age of about three or four years old. Its usage is widespread across various linguistic groups in South Africa, not limited to Afrikaans speakers. It conveys a sense of smallness, tenderness, and endearment.

While "pikkie" is a widely understood term in South Africa, it is not a formal or technical term. It belongs to informal, everyday language. The term's origin, while rooted in Afrikaans, highlights the playful and often diminutive nature of nicknames given to young children in the region. Its simplicity and affectionate tone have made it a staple in South African parenting vocabulary.