The phrase "" combines two essential Japanese words: " okaasan " (mother) and " itadakimasu " (the traditional expression of gratitude said before a meal). Meaning Breakdown
Saying "Okaasan, itadakimasu" is only half the ritual. The other half is "Gochisousama deshita" (Thank you for the feast) after the meal. But note: after a meal, the child says "Okaasan, gochisousama" – again addressing the mother.
In many Japanese households, the mother is traditionally the primary meal preparer. By saying Okaasan, itadakimasu , a child (or even an adult child visiting home) does three things:
A respectful way to address one's own mother or someone else's mother. Itadakimasu: