mom-and-pop

adjective

ˈmäm-ən(d)-ˈpäp 

1

: being or relating to a small owner-operated business

a mom-and-pop grocery

2

: small-scale

Examples of mom-and-pop in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

All three are aiming to make their chains more like local mom-and-pop stores. — Phil Wahba, Fortune, 10 Oct. 2026

Now, Chavez said the community’s mom-and-pop shops may not survive a small emergency like a pipe burst or inclement weather event. — Alex Harring, CNBC, 7 Oct. 2026

Galarza began his culinary career 20 years ago, working up from mom-and-pop diners to a five-star resort. — Tony Briscoe, Los Angeles Times, 6 Oct. 2026

Set in the heart of New York City with abundant green space, independent mom-and-pop shops, and a residential feel, the borough of Brooklyn has plenty of warm vibes to explore. — Alison Fox, Travel + Leisure, 3 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1945, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for mom-and-pop

• barbershop
• countertop
• lollipop
• mountaintop
• photoshop
• tabletop
• turboprop
• atop
• backdrop
• backstop
• bebop
• blacktop